the transmission in my 97 sierra is having some issues and i think it would be cheaper and easier just to find another transmission and swap it myself. how hard is it to swap auto transmissions and what trans would be the best for the 5.7L in the truck?
Since you are asking here I would not recommend you do this job yourself. In fact, I've swapped several trannys and I would NOT undertake such a job without a lift and tranny jack.
its real easy. call autozone or the dealer and they can tell you what u need. I have done a lot of trans for multi vehicles, i did my first one jacked up in the gravel. Everytime i buy a new vehicle I buy a manual from a parts store, complete tear down and overhaul
Is it 4wd? if it is you have to take the transfer case off the transmission or take out the intermediate drive line. If it is only a rear wheel (2wd) truck then just take the drive line off, unhook and unbolt the starter, unhook electrical, linkage and vacuum lines, then unbolt the tail shaft mount and then take the cross brace out, then unbolt the transmission from the engine, make sure you have something or someone strong to hold the transmission it is a little heavy. Then just reverse procedures on installing the new transmission, and you should be good to go. You can do it, it isn't too hard. Oh don't forget to swap the torque converter and make sure you get it seated good on the new transmission and that it is full of fluid.
