Im looking to swap my na 87 s4 transmission my 1st and 2nd gear went out and i found a used transmission cheaper than the parts to take apart my tranny and rebuild. This is my first time doing a tranny swap. Any guides tips or tricks would be greatlt appreciated. If somone could give me a hand as to writing up steps for this.

 

Have your parts ready.. pilot bearing and seal, any seals for the transmission you're replacing. Get a release bearing and clutch kit if you're replacing, mounts, etc. Drain and refill the trans on the ground unless you're weak and have a fluid transfer pump.

Use a piece of cardboard and a sharpie to draw yourself maps of where bolts go and push them through the cardboard in their appropriate location.

Having two jacks helps. One to assist you in lifting the transmission into its rough location, and a second one to gently jack up the front of the engine to tilt it backwards some, which makes stabbing the pilot shaft easier.

You will need a slide hammer with correct collette in order to remove the old pilot bearing. You can buy this from harbor freight.

Mechanics wire is handy.

Yellow painters tape and a sharpie are handy to label things if you're forgetful.

The information is all out there. Searching is your friend!

 

Make certain the trans is from the same series N/A.

 

Taking the transmission out by itself is not the best way, it's a way but definitely the least fun lol.
If you don't have a hoist I would just yank the engine and tranny together with an engine crane. You will not have fun lining this bad boy up if you're not high off the ground. You will save time and you won't crush your pilot bearing.