I have an 88 DX Accord with 205K, the third tranny just quit. No reverse, no 3rd gear. Everything on the car is in very good shape and working. My son and I are considering a tranny swap, but would like to do it ourselves. What tranny would be in this car? I have been reading the forum and I'm totally confused. What tranny could I use? Any hints for this project? Thanks

 

Well, I'm pretty sure that your Accord is carbureted, meaning you have the A20 motor in there. I'm not positive on the tranny code 'cause I sold my Accord 3 years ago, but I'm sure you could find one for dirt cheap on here or another parts classifieds. You're looking at a bit of work as far as replacing the tranny goes. It's more or less time consuming, due to the amount of parts that need to be taken off/moved to get the tranny dropped. As far as hints go, get a Helms manual, and definitely try to get a tranny jack... it will make the job MUCH smoother when you don't have to grab that 75 pound paper weight when you unbolt it from the block. Just take your time, and try your best to stay patient. Things will go a lot easier. Good luck with the swap.

 

Thanks for the info...and the reply. It is the carbureated version. Where do I get a Helms manual? Local auto parts store? I have a Chilton manual, but R & R of tranny is only about three paragraphs. I'll need more help than that. The original tranny went 175K, died about two weeks after "service", the replacement went about 15K, and the dealer put in anouther used one that went just about 10K. Is there something else going on with the car that might cause this? Thanks.

 

Wow, that's kind of bizarre that those trannies died so quickly. Have you checked the shifter cables that connect the shifter to the transmission? They tend to stretch over time, so that could be one possible reason why the car will go into some gears and not others. I had no problems whatsoever with my tranny grinding, popping out of gear, etc. Is someone driving the car a little hard? I know that those trannies are not made for abuse, but the A20 motor is pretty much indestructible. Why do you think you see so many 86-89 Accords still on the road today... they are kickass cars. As for the Helms, you can order them from probably a number of places online, or buy on at the stealership. They are kind of pricey, but well worth the money if you are a DIY person.

 

The 3rd (used) tranny was installed by the honda dealer. (cost $1300) My son is driving the car, and I don't know how rough he is on the car. He says he isn't. I drove the 2nd tranny and I'm not rough on equipment. I was raised on a farm and I know what carelessness can cost. The cable issue is curious. I also replaced the radiator shortly before the original tranny failed. The core was shot...I replaced with a rebuild. I know the fluid is routed through the radiator. Could there be a problem there? I'll check online for helms manual...How do I list on this site for an 89 accord tranny? Thanks