Anyone ever replaced their auto tranny with a used one?

[btccruiser]

So my auto transmission is going to need either rebuilt soon or replaced.
I got a quote of $3000-$4500 to rebuild it. Rediculous... My mechanic recommended getting a solid used one or getting other quotes. What are some additional options? I am looking to spend somewhere around $2,000 or less if possible. What do you guys think? Has anyone found a good used auto tranny? And what would I look for in finding a good one that will last a long time?

Thanks for the help!

 

[cruiser88]

You can buy used off mud but I would buy a fj60 and slap in a 4 speed before i spend that kind of$$$$

 

[billmc]

Not to second guess your diagnosis, but there a some fixable things that make it seem like your tranny is no good. You should post up your symptoms.

 

[weak-link]

I took two junk trans and made a somewhat good one(not happy with 2-3 up shift). but for the price I'll live with it.

 

[btccruiser]

So here are my symtoms:
We took a road trip down to San Diego from Sacramento in June. On the way down, the transmission overheated (the light came on on the shifter) and there was smoke coming out the back as we were driving. We proceeded to just be easy on it. Stopped off in Carmel and had a transmission service. (new fluid and filter kit) The mechanic showed me the old filter which was only replaced 6K miles prior to this.
It had a lot of fine medal shavings on the screen of the filter. Since this experience, it will sometimes rev way up before shifting into 2nd. Also, happens sometimes from 2nd to 3rd. Mostly first thing in the morning or when it hasn't been ran for several hours. After it's warmed up, it's all good. Hope this helps on helping to fully diagnose.

 

[weak-link]

flush it again and before so search for the rodny party trick(60mph+slam it into park for 3sec)