So what were the issues with the SVX autos? There is one very close to me for sale for 800. The guy says it shifts slow and goes into gear slow. Is there an easy fix or.....?

Very heavy car - they overheat easily and need rebuilding often. It is not likely to be an easy fix as the overheating causes the fluid to bake and clog up passages in the tranny. ATF is a great cleanser.... except when what you are trying to clean is *bad* ATF!

 

With some modifications you can install a 5 speed (they only came stock with auto's).

 

GD

So what were the issues with the SVX autos? There is one very close to me for sale for 800. The guy says it shifts slow and goes into gear slow. Is there an easy fix or.....?

 

The best fix is to replace it with a newer (96+) 4EAT. The problems with the overheating and weak valves were corrected.

Some people have tried flushing them, with mixed results.

Sometimes the bands can be tightened, which helps for a little bit but they eventually totally fail.

If you want to do some reading on it, go over to http://www.subaru-svx.net/forum/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=30&f=5 and search for 4EAT transmission. Get ready for alot of reading

Adding a transmission cooler helps a lot.

 

Also, there is a kit made by Transgo for the valve body which pretty much eliminates the shift issues for SVX trannies. They were made to shift smooth and easy, but that increases the wear and tear on them. The kit makes them shift quickly and firmly.

 

I've had both on my SVX for about 4 years now, and the tranny is perfect.

 

The only transmission which is a direct swap is a Legacy Turbo model.

This would be your best option...

http://www.subaru-svx.net/forum/showthread.php?t=50869&highlight=What+transmission%3F

 

Also more info...

http://www.subaru-svx.net/forum/showthread.php?t=37299&highlight=direct+swap+transmission%3F

Edited July 21, 200916 yr by Turbone

The issue:

 

The Lock up torque converter sheds clutch material. This material clogs up the radiator cooler and lines, and causes the tranny to overheat and fail. Subarus fix was a filter in the transmission line. You still need to frequently change the fluid, and a fluid temp gauge waould be very smart.

 

The svx you are seeing has a failed tranny. Slow shifiting is a bad sign. The most economical fix is the 4eat conversion (and rear diff). SVX had a nicer AWD system, but it is not worth the $$$$$$$ to get one properly rebuilt with all the issues resolved.

Thanks everyone, sounds like I will hold off. If I had more room and time, I would take on the project of changing out the tranny etc, but I don't so I won't:grin: But thanks for all the info!!!