I have 1995 400 Explorer 4x4. The output shaft broke off outside of the case. Also broke the frame mounted output shaft bearing. Shaft sheared off right at the case. I am wondering whether I should replace the transmission with an ebay unit or take the transmission apart and replace the shaft.

My transmission, aside from the broken shaft, seems to work OK. After removing the rear chain and adjacent carnage I was able to start the motor and see the shaft rotate forward and reverse, high and low range.

Transmissions on Ebay are running $250 to $400. Of course they are used and an unknown commodity. Looks like an output shaft is at least $185 in addition to whatever else I might find once I am inside the transmission.

As I see it, if I fix my transmission I can save a couple bucks and have a known product. On the other hand It would seem like a lot less hassle to simply change out the trans as long as I get one that is as good or better than mine (before it broke).

Any advice or observations by those more knowledgeable than me to keep me from going from the frying pan into the fire are appreciated.

 

Think you've figured that one out as you never know what you're getting on ebay,may have to put more into a used one after you've installed it.. Plus always replace the silent chain and seals when you tear one apart.

 

Thanks for the quick reply. Seeing how I use the machine mostly for snow removal I have the time now to rebuild the trans. Thank you very much for the advice. Chain and seals are added to the parts list.