Selling busted Windstar

I have this 98 Windstar that has a bad tranny now. I'm gonna try a few things to fix the transmission, but if it costs me too much I'm not even gonna try :banghead:. Engine has a little over 150K miles on it. Interior is OK, body has a couple dents but no rust. I'm wondering if it'd be better to sell it as it is, take it apart and sell some of the parts (those wheel covers cost a few dollars!), or put a few more dollars into it to fix it and then sell it or just use it. I saw someone selling a Windstar with the same mileage, same color, and it had a rebuilt transmission put in recently in the local auto trader rag and it was going for about $5500. The tranny problems those vans are prone to, I doubt anyone's gonna want to buy one that already needs it replaced. Anyone got some suggestions?

150K miles that's pretty good....

I replaced my tranny @99K km, two years ago.

Sell as is - maybe $2K?

If you have done proper maintenance on the engine (i.e. regular oil, coolant, and filter changes), and you aren't burning oil or hearing any nasty knocking noises, and assuming the body and interior are in reasonable shape, I'd be tempted to fix the tranny and keep it. Especially if you are mechanically inclined and feel capable of pulling that tranny and taking it to a professional rebuilder (that cuts the cost by about half). If you do, be sure not to take it to one of those nationwide chains--find someone who comes with a good recommendation from a mechanic you trust. Also, be sure to change that tranny fluid religiously--i.e. every 25 to 30K miles.

Best of luck to you.

.... Also, be sure to change that tranny fluid religiously--i.e. every 25 to 30K miles.

Best of luck to you.

What kind of Trans fluid - EXACLY - do you suggest? I have read a few post here stating that the RIGHT Trans fluid is a MUST to ensure prolonged life with this transaxle.

The Thread I Started...Same Problem! (http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=331041)

I am in the same state with my 1997 WindJunk.

I use Dexron III/Mercon. I don't think the brand is all that critical as long as it is a name brand, and you change it regularly. When I change it ever 25-30K miles, it is still pink, and that is one of the keys to transmission longevity. Regardless, be sure to check your owner's manual to verify that you don't need some other flavor of fluid.

Best of luck to you!

I use Dexron III/Mercon. ....


jgbmo .... Thanks