Question asked to GotTransmissions.com:
Question: I own a 1997 Buick LeSabre with 205,000 miles; my transmission is chain-driven, and the chain broke. The original was replaced by a Goodwrench equivalent several years (and owners) ago. There is no label on it. I understand that 2 different transmissions, the 284-F17 and 306 FW2, were used for 1997 models. How do we figure out, without removing the current transmission, which I would need as a replacement? I was told that this could be determined by the VIN…but how? Thanks!
A common problem with chain driven front wheel drive transmissions. What you have in common terms, is either a T-440 or a T-125C. The 440 is a computerized 4 speed automatic overdrive with a lock up torque converter. The 125C is a 3 speed automatic without overdrive, but with lock up.
Both units use chains. As they stretch the first thing you may notice is the slippage of the chain. Very noticeable. Realistically speaking if you encounter this slippage noise, take it right to a reputable transmission shop and get it fixed before it breaks and causes real damage.
We need the vin or Vehicle Identification number, which is not provided to decide what trans is in it. The ID numbers in the question don’t mean anything to me, but you have a 3 speed automatic or a 4 speed overdrive transmission. Call GotEnines.com at 866-320-1182, perhaps they can ID your tranny, it is their job you know.
You have a legit question on where the chain came from. When I owned my transmission shop from 1981 to 2006, which i sold 3 years ago, we always used factory Delco chains that came in a Delco box from my supplier. Yes, many after market chains are available. Made in China, Mexico and places I have never heard of.
It is very fashionable to use a cheap after market chain. Actually you can buy all the hard parts in a transmission in inferior brands if you choose. Yes they work, usually. But no they don’t last as long.
They will make it out of warranty, which suits certain shops well. I think it is cheating the customer. As far as I’m concerned, the transmission should be built to last way longer than a warranty.
That was our paradigm, to do the best job we could with a 3 year warranty and charge what it costs to prepare the transmission that way. We charged exactly what it was supposed to cost, not a penny more or less. I’m not saying we were an inexpensive shop, but we gave you value, which in the long run saves money.
I recommend requesting a factory made chain if you get it fixed and making sure you want all original equipment parts quality or better parts with the proper upgrades built into the transmission. Both units especially the T-440 need updates.
The only way I can assure you a good used unit would be to buy it from GotTransmissions.com. They have the tools to identify the good units. If you buy a rebuilt unit from GotTransmissions, you can bet money they know the rebuilding company used good old factory parts.
Hopefully our GotTransmissions.com Blog helps this person and more understand why some used and transmissions last longer than others. Be an educated consumer. It will save a lot of hassles down the road, not mention money..
