I think I'll stick with the canonical method as well. I remember misgivings back in The Day about replacing MG2 because of the bearing preload issues, and seeing all the steps I am not interested in getting all that deep into it. A yard in Maricopa (less than 3 hours drive from here) lists a transmission for $550 and I would be able to do some impedance tests and smell the transmission fluid (I'll bring along the wife for that). The cost of the drive is probably about what I would pay for shipping the beast, too. The car will be worth about $3000 when it is back on the road, which doesn't leave me much room to get fancy. The local transmission shop quoted $1100 for the remove and reinstall... I'm wondering how much battle I am prepared for. I have to remember I'm not 60 any more.
I just bought one last week and had it shipped. Cost me 150 for shipping which was cheaper for me than driving there..I guess I am outvoted ,but I prefer to just replace the MG2 motor. Its a lot quicker and easier than replacing entire transmission. Also you do not need to drain the pesky invertor cooling system..I have done it quite a few times and it takes about a total of 4 hours to do a swap..
"I have done it quite a few times and it takes about a total of 4 hours to do a swap.." I'd be interested in seeing detailed photos explaining your procedure, next time you do this.
I'm not committed yet.... What I saw in the link a few posts back indicated the real drag is shimming the new MG2. Otherwise I agree - if I don't have to drop the whole thing it will be a lot easier. How much is the MG2, and where do I look for one?
Right ... that's if you replace the whole MG2 (which you can't do without dropping the entire tranny anyway). The machining tolerances could be different so all of the bearing preload adjustment has to be done on reassembly. If you check Luscious Garage's site you can find a video on replacing only the MG2 stator. All the moving parts remain the original ones, the shims aren't disturbed, and it's all done through the end plate. Even though the stator isn't sold separately so you end up buying a whole MG2 to use one part from, what you save in labor.... -Chap
You can also go used At car-part.com.. They will cost around 400 to 500 used.. But just beware .. these are used and may or may not be good...
Hey all, I'm reviving this thread in hopes someone will chime in that has done the MG2 stator swap? Any tips or tricks? Otherwise it looks pretty straight forward.
