Hello, I have a 1996 Chevy Blazer LS v6 4.3L and the tranny has gone out.

Havent been into a tranny shop yet, however the fact is WILL NOT shift into second, is almost a given.

It is my truck and me and my father are somewhat at a standstill trying to figure out what to do exactly.

My father has a good amount of car experience so here are a few of my questions:

1. How hard would a tranny rebuild be with the proper tools, lifts, and time?

2. If so, where would be the best place to purchase a kit for a rebuild?

3. If it is best to order a already rebuilt tranny, where would it be best to order it from?

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I know this is a lot of questions, but we are in need of some help here.

Thank you in advance,
Dustin

 

Tranny rebuilds are very difficult, but it is not impossible. You will need good base knowledge from someone that has torn apart transmissions. An automatic transmission tools kit that has specialist transmission tool will run anywhere from $150-$450. You will also need a service manual for transmission rebuild specs.

However, if you choose to get a rebuilt transmission, get one with a warrenty. I've heard that Jasper engines and transmissions is pretty good with getting reliable transmissions.

I've only taken a vehicle in transmission repair shop once. I had more problems afterwards then when I went in. That's not to say every tranny shop is bad just because I had a bad experience.

Also, it wouldn't be a bad idea to get new torque converter too. Some transmissions like to take the torque converter with them when they fail.

 

Buy the shift solenoids and swap them out. Replace the filter while you have the pan off and seal it all back up and refill with fluid.

Maybe trying that cheap route first will fix your problem. If you are brave you can also drop the valve body and replace the little ***** and gaskets in that....might fix the problem as well.

Which number is on the computer for your 1996? If it is 16244210 you are ok. PCM 16208546 had a design problem with a bad ground on the motherboard and GM's kit # 12167310 is a wiring fix for that PCM.


The TSB to fix the wire harness on your vehicle for the tranny issues:

https://blazerforum.com/forum/engine...67103-a-16787/


I had the same problem as that person in that post. My PCM pinout/ wiring didn't match the instructions....so couldn't fix GM's bad PCM.

It appears the 44210 PCM is the one we want for 1996 vehicles to fix the tranny problem (computer ground).

 

Thank you very much for your responses! Very much appreciated. Most likely going to do the rebuild ourselves because seems challenging and fun at the same time. However, we will look into the shift solenoids and replacing the filter.