Just bought a 2000 Civic. The previous owner seems mechanically inclined and says it needs a new pilot bearing (it grinds and whirrs when the clutch is engaged), but I'm also noticing that it makes noises synonymous with bad input shaft bearings (rough noises when accelerating and decelerating, very loud and harsh acceleration in first and second gears).

He says that he'll help me install a new bearing if I get the parts, and I've also read that if I'm doing that, I may as well replace the clutch while I'm at it.

He says it's an easy job to open up the transmission in this model, but if I'm going to be replacing all of those parts, how is all this comparable to just getting a new transmission, both effectively and cost-wise?

 

D series transmissions are cheap in where I am. Its more practical and easier just to purchase a used japanese imported trans than to go through the hassles of fixing a high milage trans. If you can get a used low milage trans cheap, just replace the old one.

 

D series transmissions where I live are like $75-$150 tops. Check Craigslist.