As a guesstamate what would a trans shop generally get to replace a 3rd gear syncro set on a 98 Civic HX? I'm not keen on buying a used trans as it may have more problems that mine. The rest of my transmission is fine, but 3rd gear is horrible unless I tap 4th before I shift into 3rd.

 

Depends on the shop. The synchro isn't the problem though. Bad synchro spring and banged up sleeve and hub is most or all of your problem. You may in addition to that have worn engagement teeth on 3rd gear itself.

Syncrhotech and Gearspeed will both sell you just the parts you need most of the time as opposed to having to buy a whole kit.

 

Looks like it might be worth the gamble on a used trans. I'll go to a few local shops and see what they offer. It's just a daily ;(

 

Just make sure not to get rid of the trans U have already so once u get that used one and its crap u might have enough parts to make one decent one

 

A rebuild consists of some standard wear parts, plus anything else that is not a wear item, (like a hub, gear, or slider). It is best to rebuild what you have, and tear it down to determine what you need. I honestly don't understand why so many people refuse to tear down and inspect a transmission. With as much information as there is on here, it is easy as pie. From my personal experience, do it yourself if you want the rebuilt unit to last. I can count 4 times where the output shaft on a 4T60E was installed backwards from the shop I received it from. Trust me, you don't want to be that guy.

 

I don't have the means to do it myself. Nowhere to work on the car. I've also never done anything like that. I do all my own maintenance, and basic replacement parts that could be done in a day.

You seem like you know your stuff. Too bad you aren't in NY, I'd hire you for this job.

 

My experience is quite vast, and not just with Honda.

If you decide to buy a house, you had better be able to take on the perils of such a house (IE water heater, A/C, water leaks etc).

The same goes for a car. Teaching yourself using good information may not save you a bundle of cash initially, but I also realize I may not what to drive the same car forever. It is to your advantage to learn, because it WILL save you a lot of money. The initial investment is puny in comparison to what you will save in total, acquire in tools, and learn all at the same time.