looking at bongo with possible auto gearbox issue

[lenny_mc]

Hi,

I am going to view a bongo with a possible auto gearbox issue. The seller describes it as "gearbox issue shows itself sometimes when I approach red traffic lights...I let it 'freewheel' slowly towards red light and then the bongo at times gives a strange 'chug' just before it is supposed to coast to its natural standstill. Also it seems at times to be finding it difficult to accelerate at times."

I have read up on some of the issues caused by bad/low ATF and suspect that this may be the cause here. I have not yet seen or driven the bongo myself and only have this to go on. Otherwise the bongo looks well cared for, and has a nice rear conversion. Its a 2001 facelift model, straight bodywork and looks to have no rust from the pictures. about 75k miles.

If the gearbox is totally kaput, what sort of options do I have for repair/replacement? I have seen some pretty wild quotes for gearbox work, but wonder what people actually do. Replacement from a breaker? Rebuild?

Thanks in advance,
Lenny

[Bob]

That's a difficult one.

At least the seller is being honest but if it was an easy/cheap fix my guess is they would get it done and sell as 'All Good'.

Pals in the past have bought 'Bargains' which just need an easy repair and I can't recal one of them coming out ahead.

Bongospare will supply good used gearboxes but its impossible to advise on a repair until its gone to a specialist.

[lenny_mc]

That one sold before I got a chance to view it. Thanks for the reply tho Bob!

[Bob]

Probably well out of it.

Another will be along soon.