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Aisin Warner (AW) 55 Transmission for '81 244 DL 200 1981

I am planning to replace a bad Automatic transmission in my '81 244 DL with a used one from a wrecking yard. I was advised that any 3-speed AT from 1981-1984 will fit however, it is unclear if the oil lines will match my '81. Does anyone know which year other than '81 have the identical oil line routings or do all '81-'84 models have identical routings? Additionally, is there any way of telling if a used AT has a good chance of being functional without first installing it in the vehicle? What should I look for if I pull the pan before installation? Is there anything else that I could examine to increase my chances of finding a good used AT?

Many thanks,

OnlyVolvo








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    Aisin Warner (AW) 55 Transmission for '81 244 DL 200 1981

    Did AW70 change to my "81 about 6 years ago. It is extra work but the OD is well worth it. Search the board for extensive comments and things to do for the swap. Few cars crash due to a bad trans.








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    Aisin Warner (AW) 55 Transmission for '81 244 DL 200 1981

    Get an AW-70 from a 1985 or older 240. Newer ones might not have the speedo drive gear, since 1986 and newer 240 have the electric speedo drive.

    From a donor car you will need the wiring harnesses to control the overdrive. I think you will need the relay, too. Relay for a stick shift is NOT the same as for an autobox.

    Good Luck,

    Bob

    :>)










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    Aisin Warner (AW) 55 Transmission for '81 244 DL 200 1981

    Hi,
    I searched hi and low for an Aw55 for my 78 240 several years ago. After I found, and installed it, I found that I wouldve been much better served by installing one of the "AW70" series of trannies. This includes the 70,71,and 72.
    The one with the "L at the end of the number indicates a lock up torque converter. It functions as a fith gear.

    There is a big difference in the noise level inside you car cruising in 3rd(aw55) gear, as opposed to cruising in 4th(aw70), or 5th(aw70L)gear. It will make a difference in your gas mileage as well.

    The only reason, I believe, to install the 55 would be if you wanted , for whatever reason to keep the car stock. Personally, I cant think of any reason I would want to install a 55.
    Good luck.

    Lawrence








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    Aisin Warner (AW) 55 Transmission for '81 244 DL 200 1981

    You may want to consider converting to an AW70/71 transmission. From prior posts on BB, it should be a straightforward change. You will need to get the wiring for the OD switch, as well as the knob, etc. As far as what to look for, my belief is that it is just a matter of luck. One can look at car mileage, body damage, etc, to get some sense of the donor car, but it is really difficult to know for sure.

    Let me know how you fare, as I would like to get rid of an AW55 eventually on my in-law's car.

    Regards,
    Jeff








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      Aisin Warner (AW) 55 Transmission for '81 244 DL 200 1981

      what's bad about the 55 you have (aside that it's a 55?). They are pretty bulletproof. Is the oil level okay?

      You can probably get another 240 for the same money as having a transmission put in; that's what I'd do. Are any of the potential improvements worth this money? You can get a lot of fuel/stereo/car for hundreds of dollars. What else does your money buy?

      The only way I'd ever sink $$$ into a different trans in a 240 would be to put in a T5 and that is assuming a rust-free, solid body. You can probably get a 71 equipped stock 240 for what this work would cost you.

      --
      Stef (81 245 B21A SU M46 3.91 330000km, 81 244 BW55 3.31 220000km)







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