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Houston Junkyard’s Guide to DIY Transmission Removal (Part 1)

mechanic working with a used transmission

If you’ve read our blog on the signs it’s time for a used replacement transmission and determined you need a new one, then this blog will be useful as you begin the transmission installation process. Here is part 1 or our Houston salvage yard’s detailed guide to DIY transmission removal.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Ratchet
  • Socket set
  • Extensions
  • Universal joint extension
  • Wrenches
  • Torque wrench
  • Breaker bar
  • 12-inch jacks + jack stands
  • Drain pan
  • Transmission jack
  • Transmission fluid

Steps for Removing Your Old Transmission

1: Safety First

Using your jack stands, raise the car about 24 inches high. Place them under the sides of the transmission so as to create space for the transmission jack later. We also recommend you place a ramp or something similar underneath the front tires, as well as a jack under the cross-member for further support. All of this ensures that, if your transmission bumps anything, your car won’t fall on top of you.

2: Battery

Open the battery cover and unscrew the clamp. Then, slide the cable off of the battery post. Set it aside so you make sure it doesn’t touch the post.

3: Shifter

We recommend you remove the shifter now, as doing so keeps things from getting greasy and messy inside the car. You do this by unscrewing the shifting knob and then removing it. Next, remove the shifter trim by prying it upwards and sliding it off. Now you can unscrew the nuts holding the shifting lever so you can also slide it off. At this point, you should see the shifter boot. Remove the 4 bolts holding it in place, followed by the shifter. This will aid in pouring in the transmission fluid later.

4: Exhaust

Not all cars require exhaust removal, so it helps to check how your transmission and exhaust pipes are laid out. If you do need to remove it, start with disconnecting the oxygen sensors from the downpipe. Next, disconnect the wiring harness, since this is easier than unscrewing each sensor. Simply press on the clip and pull the harness apart. Now, remove the nuts that hold the pipes with an 18mm socket from top to bottom. A universal socket will also work. Afterward, use a ratcheting wrench to remove the bolts behind the x pipe. Separate the exhaust pipes and set aside.

TIP: Spraying the exhaust fasteners with penetrating fluid will make this job easier.

5: Transmission Fluid

Now it’s time to drain the fluid. Doing so before removing the transmission will make it lighter and easier to remove. To drain it, place the drain pan underneath and use the box end of a 3/8 ratcheting wrench to open the drain plug. Be sure to screw the drain plug back in, but not too tightly.

6: Driveshaft

Ensure your car is in neutral and then turn the driveshaft so you can see 2/4 of the bolts. Set the parking brake and then use a 12 point wrench or socket to remove the bolts. Once removed, release the brake and turn the driveshaft again so you can see the other bolts. Re-engage the parking brake and then remove the bolts. Now you can easily slide the driveshaft out. Place the drain pan underneath the transmission just in case more fluid spills out.

TIP: If a driveshaft bolt is really tight, you can heat up the metal around the bolt to loosen it. You may also consider using a longer wrench for more leverage.

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How to Install a Reconditioned Battery From Our Houston Junkyard

It’s no secret how essential a car battery is, as is your transmission and your engine. Because the battery is such an important part of your vehicle, it makes sense that it is one of the most frequently replaced car parts. However, if you’ve read our blog about the benefits of purchasing a reconditioned car battery, then you’ll know that reconditioned batteries are just as effective and often last longer than normal batteries.

How to Install Your Reconditioned Battery From Our Houston Salvage Yard

Now that you have a reconditioned battery, you’re ready to install it in order to have your car up and running again. Here is your DIY guide to installing a reconditioned car battery.

Step 1: Detach the Cables

First things first, make sure your engine is off. Next, open the hood and detach the black cable from the battery, as this is the negative cable. We recommend using a wrench and battery pliers for this, as this will prevent any damage to the battery or your cables. First, use your wrench to loosen the nut. Next, use your pliers to twist and pull the end of the able. Please avoid using a screwdriver or a pry-bar, as these may easily cause irreversible damage. After you have removed the black (negative) cable, repeat the process with the red (positive) cable. 

Step 2: Removing the Battery

Now that the wires have been removed, you may use your wrench again in order to remove the battery’s hold-down clamp. Once this is removed, you may proceed with removing the battery from its tray. Because of how heavy car batteries are, make sure you lift from the bottom or use the handle, if yours comes with one. 

Step 3: Prepping for the Reconditioned Battery

Now that your battery tray is free, it’s time to clean it. We suggest using a specialty solution made for cleaning batteries. Alternatively, you may use a mixture of baking soda and water to clear away any corrosion. It’s a good idea to also clean the cable tips/connectors with the same solution and a wire brush.

Step 4: Installing Your Recently Purchased Reconditioned Battery

Now you are ready to install the recycled battery. Carefully place the battery into the tray and re-fasten the hold-down clamp. Afterward, spray both the negative and the positive ends with an anti-corrosion solution in order to further protect your battery. 

Next, securely attach the positive (red) cable, followed by the negative (black) cable. Double check that everything is tight, otherwise your car may not start properly.

Get a Reliable Reconditioned Battery From Airline Auto Parts, Our Houston Salvage Yard

Reconditioned batteries are widely available, but it is crucial that you only go to a trusted seller, like our Houston junkyard. Much like our used replacement engines and used replacements transmissions, we test our batteries to make sure they work for years to come so you can rest assured your car will run well with it. If you are in need of an affordable, working car battery, then please contact us. Our reconditioned batteries retail for only $50, and $40 with exchange.

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Shopping at Full-Service Junkyards vs Self-Service Junkyards

Although there are a few junkyards to shop at in Houston, shopping at a full-service junkyard like Airline Auto Parts is a different experience than shopping at a self-service one. Here is how you can shop for recycled car parts at our Houston salvage yard compared to others.

Shopping at a Self-Service Junkyard Versus a Full-Service Junkyard

Self-Service Junkyards

A self-service salvage yard allows for shoppers to explore and find different parts, such as used transmissions or used engines, as they please. Often, casual browsers may come in without a certain part in mind, but while they browse they may find a used car part that would look fantastic in their vehicle.

In other cases, some customers have done early research and simply browse a junkyard to ensure it carries a part they might need soon. Often, they find the perfect car part, so they are able to purchase it right away and save the part for later.

Full-Service Junkyards

Opposite of self-service salvage yards are full-service salvage yards like Airline Auto Parts. As a full-service yard, we pride ourselves on creating a seamless shopping experience for shoppers that know a lot about cars as well as for shoppers that may not know as much but still wish to save money and fix their cars. 

Our customers typically have a specific used auto part they are in need of and they come to our salvage yard because they need it as soon as possible. We test and pull all of our parts ahead of time and organize them so that when a customer comes in, they just need to tell us their car’s make and model and what part they are looking for and we can easily give it to them if it is in stock.

Alternatively, customers often use our online parts search to find what they need. If they don’t find it online, we encourage them to call us so we can check that we have the right part in-store. If we don’t, we are happy to order it for them, since we ship parts for all makes and models nationwide. Additionally, we back all purchases with a fantastic 6-month warranty and money-back guarantee and offer the option to upgrade the warranty.

Our Full-Service Salvage Yard Makes Buying Used Transmissions or Used Engines Affordable and Efficient

At our Houston salvage yard, we are proud to provide a seamless shopping experience. Shopping for recycled car parts can be tedious, but it doesn’t have to be if we are there to help. If you are in need of a used transmission, used engine, or other recycled car parts, then please contact us. We look forward to helping you find what you need to fix your car and ensure your safety.

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Don’t Get a New Car Battery, Buy a Reconditioned Battery Instead

checking reconditioned car battery

We all know how important your car’s battery is; it gives your ignition an adequate amount of current in order for you to successfully start your car. Have you ever started the ignition only for it to struggle to start your car? This can happen if you accidentally leave the lights on all day and all night or if you use your accessories, such as the charging cable, when the car is off. Car batteries are one of the parts that are most frequently replaced, but did you know a reconditioned battery is still effective and offers other benefits?

The Benefits of Buying a Reconditioned Car Battery From Our Houston Salvage Yard

Less Waste Means Less Irresponsible Disposal

Car batteries are often disposed of prematurely. Just because the battery is struggling and isn’t as powerful, does not mean there is no power at all. Our salvage yard is proud to do our part in protecting the environment, and this includes the reconditioned batteries we sell. By reconditioning old car batteries, we leave them out of landfills where they will sit for years and years, allowing the lead to contaminate the environment.

Reconditioning Batteries Prolongs Their Life

Many car owners don’t realize how long batteries can actually last. If their battery dies once or isn’t fully charging, then they would rather not risk it happening again and, instead, buy a brand new battery for 100 dollars or more. Interestingly enough, the average lifespan of a battery is about five years, but successfully restoring it can make it last as long as ten years, and even longer in many cases.

Save Money on What Would Be Frequent Purchases

On average, car owners replace their battery every 3 years, but factors such as climate and driving habits may lead to people replacing their batteries even sooner. This is exactly why batteries are replaced so often. Paying hundreds of dollars that frequently may not seem like much to some, but if you need to buy other replacement car parts, such as a used engine or used transmission, then these costs will add up. A reconditioned battery, on the other hand, costs a fraction of what you would pay for a new battery.

Buy a Reconditioned Battery From a Reputable Seller Like Airline Auto Parts

Reconditioned batteries are widely available, but it is crucial that you only go to a trusted seller, like our Houston junkyard, so if you are in need of a battery, please contact us. We sell reconditioned batteries for only $50, and $40 with exchange. Because we test them to ensure they will work for years to come, you don’t have to worry about replacing yours anytime soon.

 

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Additional Signs It’s Time to Buy a Replacement Transmission

automatic transmission on a table

You may have already read our blog on Three Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Vehicle’s Transmission, but did you know those are not the only signs? Here are some additional indicators that may mean your transmission is failing. Knowing these signs ahead of time is helpful so that you can replace it before it’s too late.

1. Your Car is Experiencing Transmission Slipping

Your vehicle’s transmission is there to help ensure a smooth drive at any gear, regardless if you drive a manual or automatic vehicle. If, while on your daily drive, you feel like you’re driving in one gear, but then feel like it randomly changes, then your transmission is slipping. This also presents itself as the feeling of your car being underpowered.

2. Transmission Fluid Leak

If something is leaking in your car, that’s never a good sign. You may notice upon leaving your garage or driveway that there is a big spot underneath where your car was parked. To determine whether the spot is a current leak, we recommend laying down cardboard underneath the front and middle sections of your car next time you park. Later on, check the cardboard; transmission fluid is typically bright red, dark red, or dark brown.

3. Check Engine Light

One final sign it may be time to buy a used replacement engine is if your “check engine” light turns on. This doesn’t automatically indicate that your transmission is failing, but if it comes on and you have noticed any of the aforementioned signs in the slightest, then this serves as a good early warning that a serious transmission problem will soon develop.

Airline Auto Parts in Houston Sells Used Replacement Transmissions at Our Junkyard

At our salvage yard, we know that transmissions are a highly important part of your car, and replacing it can be expensive. This is why we regularly stock and order used replacement transmissions and ship nationwide. We take pride in significantly cutting your auto part costs so you can ensure your car is always in good condition. If you are in need of a replacement transmission, please contact us so we can help you find the right part. 

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Shopping at Airline Auto Parts, a Houston Salvage Yard

birds eye view of a salvage junk yard full of cars

Shopping at salvage yards like Airline Auto Parts in Houston is an interesting experience. While some may be familiar with it, others have only recently learned about the benefits of shopping at a salvage yard (or junkyard). For those who are new to the junkyard concept, here is how you can shop at our Houston salvage yard.

Salvage Yard Shopping Doesn’t Have to be Intimidating

Shopping for auto parts at a conventional store can be a stressful experience, especially with the added costs that a store will charge you, and salvage yards may look intimidating due to all the parts in stock. However, our full-service salvage yard makes it easy to track down used replacement transmissions, used replacement engines, and other recycled car parts.

When it comes to shopping at a typical auto parts store, you may find newer parts, but what about parts for older makes and models? This is where salvage yards come in. At Airline Auto Parts in Houston, we receive parts for all makes and models, and test every one of them to ensure they work properly and keep drivers safe. When you buy a part from our junkyard, you can rest assured it will perform well following installation.

Shopping at Our Houston Junkyard is Efficient

Many times, we have customers that know the exact used auto part they are searching for ahead of time, based on their car’s make and model. These customers are determined to quickly find their part so they can get started working on their car. If this is your case, you can utilize our Part Search function and then contact us so we can check our stock. We pull and organize parts ahead of time to make it even easier for our customers to locate their desired car parts.

If you contact us and we do not have your specific part in stock, no worries. We will go ahead and order it for you, test it, and back it with a 6-month warranty and money-back guarantee so you have peace of mind.

Airline Auto Parts in Houston Makes Buying Used Car Parts Easy

At our Houston salvage yard, we pride ourselves in being a full-service junkyard to make your experience a positive one. If you would like to find something specific or casually browse, please contact us. We look forward to helping you find something that meets your needs.

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Purchase a Used Replacement Engine From a Salvage Yard

When your engine shows signs that it’s not working properly, you may consider getting a brand new car to save you the headache and start fresh. After all, driving with a bad engine is dangerous for you, other drivers, and for the environment, but why do that and spend all that money when you can instead buy a used replacement engine at our Houston salvage yard for a fraction of the price?

We pride ourselves in having a substantial stock of used replacement car parts for all makes and models, even late-model cars. Because we want to be sure we can offer the best parts at all times, we complete thorough testing on each part that arrives at our Houston junkyard. In addition, every single part we stock is backed by our 6-month guarantee. So if you purchase a used replacement engine and it fails you within 6 months, you’ll get your money back. Although this is a rare occurrence, we would still like to give you peace of mind.

Save Money at Our Houston Salvage Yard

Pricey auto parts stores sell brand new parts at a high price in order to cover their own costs and make a substantial profit. Unlike them, however, our junkyard sells recycled used parts. Auto part stores tend to have very limited parts in stock since they specialize in newer car parts, but our team understands the freedom of not having to spend on a down payment or monthly payments for a new car. Instead, we can help you simply replace a problematic engine with a recycled replacement engine. Pulling an engine from our salvage yard helps save you hundreds or thousands of dollars.

In Need of a Used Replacement Engine? Airline Auto Parts Can Help

Airline Auto Parts has long been a leader in the used car parts industry. We strive to be your one-stop-shop for all your needs when it comes to ensuring your vehicle’s longevity and safety. If you are in need of a used replacement engine, please contact us and tell us more about your make and model. We’ll gladly help you find the right part so you can save money on installation costs and purchase price.

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Buy Used Car Parts at a Salvage Yard than an Auto Parts Store

Working on your beloved car and taking care of it to ensure it lasts for many years to come can be a lot of work. Although shopping at auto part stores is the default method for tracking down necessary parts for your automobile, salvage yards like ours in Houston should be your number one method. Here’s why shopping at our salvage yard is better than shopping at a typical car parts shop.

Auto Parts Stores Are Pricey

While you may have a decent selection to pick from, auto part stores often focus on newer cars, but they also add a hefty price tag to each part they carry so that they can cover their own costs and make a healthy profit. If you’re looking for multiple replacement parts, the costs will quickly add up. On the other hand, salvage yards like ours offer recycled used parts, so you can easily save thousands of dollars on necessary auto parts without sacrificing quality or your wallet.

Warranties and Promised Quality

At Airline Auto Parts in Houston, we offer warranties and extended warranties to ensure you get high quality used auto parts that will work. We understand that you need more than simply car parts that work. You need your safety to be a priority without sacrificing cost. This is why we test every car part we receive to make sure it’s performing well and will continue to do so for years to come.

Help Protect The Planet While You Shop Our Substantial Inventory

Unlike most junkyards, we stock all foreign and domestic vehicles, so rest assured we can help you find the part you’re looking for, whether it be an engine, transmission, or other car part. Additionally, by bringing your car to our Houston junkyard, we are able to properly dispose of harmful chemicals and keep perfectly working parts out of landfills, which ensures no harmful toxins are released into the water, air, or soil.

Contact Airline Auto Parts in Houston for Used Car Parts

Our Houston junkyard is proud to be a major supplier of recycled auto parts. If you are in need of a used replacement transmission, a used replacement engine, or other replacement car parts, please contact us today so we can help you find what you’re looking for.

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Airline Auto Parts is Committed to Eco-friendliness

While these days cars are becoming more and more eco-friendly, they haven’t always been seen that way. Many argue that automobiles are still bad for our environment and that it will be far too long before they stop harming the environment, but did you know that when cars are brought into our salvage yard, this is actually beneficial for our environment?

How Can a Salvage Yard Help the Environment?

Think about how many cars we see on the road in Houston. Now think about how many cars there are in all the big cities in the United States. It’s hard to fathom, but we know there’s a massive amount of automobiles all over the country.

Unfortunately, while there are many cars being driven on the highway, there are also many cars that are just sitting in the driveway. These cars can actually wreak havoc on the environment when sunlight reflects off the surface as heat, which is then absorbed by greenhouse gasses that roam around the atmosphere.

However, you can still make good use out of these cars you no longer drive. They contain valuable metals that can be reused by our Houston salvage yard. We can also take any parts that work well, such as an engine or a transmission, and sell them to those who need these used replacement car parts.

Avoid Landfills

Many often think their junk car is just that–junk. Naturally, their car would end up in a landfill, but not only does this waste those perfectly working auto parts, it also harms the environment by releasing harmful toxins into the water, air, and soil.

At our Houston salvage yard, however, we carefully and properly dispose of certain chemicals, such as anti-freeze and battery acid. If they aren’t properly disposed, they can severely damage both the soil and water.

Contact Airline Auto Parts in Houston for Used Car Parts

Our Houston junkyard is proud to Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle while providing our customers with high-quality recycled car parts. If you are in need of either a used replacement engine or a used replacement transmission, or other parts please contact us today so we can meet your needs.

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Replace Your Transmission Instead of Buying a New Car

used replacement transmission for a vehicle

The Importance of Your Vehicle’s Transmission

The importance of a vehicle’s engine is something every driver understands, but the importance of the transmission may be something people are less familiar with. The transmission takes the power from the engine and harnesses it to the gears for a smooth drive at any given speed. It also helps you maintain an efficient fuel economy. Because the transmission is such a crucial part, it will likely turn out quite pricey if a repair is needed, so many Houston drivers consider buying a new car instead of dealing with a failed transmission. However, there are ways to significantly reduce the cost.

Replacing Auto Parts is Less Expensive Than Buying a New Car

Although the idea of having a brand new car sounds great and frees you from the worries that more issues may arise in the future, many drivers find themselves in a bind when they think about all new monthly payments. This is especially true if someone is attached to their car, which has always been reliable. Having to replace a transmission could turn out to be pricey, but it will never cost as much as it does to buy a new car. Additionally, car part replacement means that your car will be safer and work as good as new for a fraction of the cost of a new vehicle. If your transmission has needed a few repairs, it might be time to replace it so there will no longer be a need for excessive reparation.

At our salvage yard in Houston, we have an impressive inventory of used replacement transmissions for a plethora of makes and models. Buying from us is a fantastic alternative to paying a repair shop. This is because the repair shop will charge you not only for the part itself, but also for tracking down a suitable unit and installing it. Finding the unit at our affordable junkyard makes a significant difference in the total cost for the replacement process.

Contact Our Houston Salvage Yard Today

At Airline Auto Parts in Houston, we offer high quality, used auto parts that can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. We test every single part we obtain, so we can assure you that whatever you find will work well and last. Contact our Houston junkyard today if you are in need of a replacement transmission to cut down on costs and prolong the life of your car.

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Save Money By Purchasing A Used Transmission

Save money by purchasing a used transmission

When it comes to replacing a transmission, buying a used transmission can save you a tremendous amount of money. Although prices vary depending on the year, make, and model of your automobile, buying a used transmission from a Houston junkyard can save you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars.

Here at Airline Auto Parts, we have an extensive inventory of high-quality used transmissions, including ones for late model vehicles. This, coupled with our state-of-the-art locating system, gives us the ability to say “YES” to almost any request, helping you save precious time and money when searching for used auto parts.

Come To Airline Auto Parts For A Great Used Transmission

All of the used auto parts at our Houston salvage yard are cleaned and tested ahead of time. Therefore, you can be sure that any used transmission purchased from us will work great. In addition, we back all of our parts with a 6-month, money back guarantee warranty. This gives our customers peace of mind in knowing that in the rare event any issues arise with the used auto part they purchased from us, they can bring it back without hassle.

Established in 1989, our Houston salvage yard began as a small, local junkyard serving those in our area. Since then, we have evolved into a sophisticated auto recycling facility serving all of the Greater Houston area and nationwide. We are proud to be a valuable source of used auto parts for both auto repair facilities and retail customers alike.  

Contact Our Houston Junkyard Today

Built upon a foundation of honesty, trust, and dependability, Airline Auto Parts is an industry leader in recycled and used auto parts. Our full-service Houston salvage yard is your One Stop Shop for all of your used auto parts needs. Therefore, if you are in the market for a great used transmission or any other auto part, contact us today.

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Salvage Yards Beneficial to the Environment

Houston salvage yards such as Airline Auto Parts contribute to a better environment.

When it comes to the benefits of junkyards/salvage yards, much is made about the tremendous amount of money one can save when purchasing used auto parts. However, another added benefit that is often overlooked is the fact that salvage yards such as Houston’s Airline Auto Parts contribute to a healthier environment.

How Salvage Yards Benefit The Environment

Most Americans are environmentally conscious and understand the importance of limiting waste and recycling as much as possible. In Houston alone, there are thousands of automobiles that have been seized, abandoned, or are no longer working. When left to just rust away, these automobiles release harmful chemicals into the environment. Not only does this pollute the environment, but valuable metals and working parts go to waste as well. Thankfully, our Houston salvage yard gives a second life to these metals, thus reducing the amount of waste going into the environment.

Junk vehicles often contain materials and parts in great working condition. To simply just throw these materials and parts away would not only be wasteful, but detrimental to the environment as well. In addition, mining for metal releases harmful toxins into the water, air, and soil. Because salvage yards reuse metals from junk automobiles, we help cut down the amount of metal being mined.

Automobiles contain chemicals harmful to the environment such as: antifreeze, transmission fluid, and battery acid. When not handled and disposed of properly, these chemicals damage the soil, water, and surrounding wildlife. Salvage yards are trained to handle these materials properly according to government regulations, thus reducing the amount of hazardous waste released into the environment.  

Contact Airline Auto Parts Today

A famous motto regarding caring for the environment is, “Reduce. Reuse. Recycle!” Our Houston junkyard is proud of the fact that we practice this motto while providing our customers with high-quality used auto parts that work great. From used transmissions to used engines and more, we strive to be your one-stop spot for all of your used auto parts needs, regardless of make, model, or year. Contact us today.

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Airline Auto Parts: A Houston Salvage Yard Leader

A Houston Salvage Yard Leader

We all know one of the best ways to save money on auto repairs is to purchase used auto parts from a reputable salvage yard and do it yourself. However, with Houston being such a large city with so many junkyards, knowing where to go can seem overwhelming. In addition, having to search all over town for the right used auto part can be quite stressful and waste a lot of time. 

Purchasing High-Quality Auto Parts Made Easy

Thankfully, Airline Auto Parts is a full-service Houston salvage yard that works to be your one-stop destination for all of your used auto parts needs. A state-of-the-art locating system and massive late model inventory allows our Houston salvage yard to say “YES” to the majority of requests, saving you valuable time and making purchasing used auto parts a simple process. 

Houston’s Most Reputable Junkyard

Established in 1989, what began as a small Houston junkyard has exponentially grown into a full-service, auto recycling facility serving not only the Greater Houston area, but nationwide as well. Both auto repair facilities and retail customers keep coming to us for high-quality used auto parts and great customer service. All of our parts are cleaned and tested ahead of time, so you can be sure you’re getting a quality part that works great. In addition, we back all of our parts with a 6-month guarantee warranty and will special order items we do not have in stock.

After years of building a great reputation based upon honesty, trust, and dependability, we are proud to be recognized as a trusted leader in the salvage yard industry. Our Houston junkyard is here to help you save both money and time when shopping for used auto parts. Check out our online reviews or give us a call and see why we are Houston’s premier source for used auto parts. 

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Save Money On Auto Repairs With Our Houston Junkyard

Save money on auto repairs with our Houston junkyard

No matter how reliable your car is, sooner or later it’s going to need some sort of repairs. Repairs can be costly, so here are a few tips from our Houston salvage yard on how to save money on auto repairs when the time comes:

If Your Car Is Still Under Warranty, Take It To The Dealer for Free Repair

Obviously, this is the most cost-effective way to save money on auto repairs because nothing beats free. These days, a 3-year or 36,000 mile (whichever comes first from date of manufacture) bumper-to-bumper warranty comes standard with every new vehicle. This warranty covers almost everything (except “wear” items like brake pads). Therefore, make sure to check your vehicle’s warranty coverage to see if your car still qualifies for free repairs at the dealership.

When Your Car Is Out Of Warranty, Take It To An Independent Repair Shop

While dealerships often provide great service, auto repairs with them are expensive. Just the cost of labor alone will run you around $90 to $100 or more per hour. Add to that the price of original equipment replacement parts, and you’re looking at quite a hefty bill.

Independent repair shops can often do the same repairs at a lesser price for labor and parts. Just make sure the shop has a good reputation (check online rankings and reviews), employs qualified technicians, and that they are using up-to-date software and service equipment. Make sure you specify whether you want OEM (original equipment manufacturer) replacement parts or aftermarket parts. Remanufactured parts usually can save you even more money. Just make sure they come from a reputable supplier and are backed by a good warranty.

Fix It Yourself With Parts Purchased From A Reputable Houston Salvage Yard

This is the most cost-effective way to save money on auto repairs not under warranty. Purchasing high-quality used auto parts from a reputable salvage yard such as Houston’s Airline Auto Parts, and installing them yourself, saves you a tremendous amount of money on parts and labor. If you don’t feel confident in your DIY repair skills, many independent repair shops will allow you to provide the parts for them. So getting the parts from our Houston junkyard and then taking them to the repair shop will still cost you much less than going to the dealership.

Let Our Houston Junkyard Help Save You Money

If you’re looking to save money in auto repairs, we highly suggest purchasing used parts from our Houston salvage yard. All of our used auto parts are cleaned and tested ahead of time, thus ensuring you get high-quality parts that work great. From used transmissions to used engines, out Houston salvage yard is your one-stop shop for all of your used auto parts needs. Contact us today.

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How To Avoid Getting Ripped Off By A Houston Junkyard

How to avoid getting ripped off by a Houston Junkyard.

People are sometimes hesitant to purchase anything from a junkyard/salvage yard for fear of getting scammed or ripped off. Thankfully, there are many reputable people in the junkyard business such as Airline Auto Parts. Here are some tips from our Houston salvage yard on how to avoid getting scammed or ripped off from less than reputable junkyards. 

Compare Quality and Prices Of Houston Junkyards 

One of the most effective ways to spot a rip-off artist is by shopping around and comparing prices. Getting a quote from at least three different places can help determine what the going rate for your item is. It will also cause the scammer to stand out. The ideal situation for a scammer is to meet a desperate or impatient shopper who doesn’t bother to compare their offer with others.  

Make Sure The Junkyard Is Fully Licensed

Make sure that the places you shop at are legitimate and properly licensed. Those that aren’t licensed are going to be much more likely to also operate unethically in other ways. Also, check their ratings on Google, Yelp, and other online review sites.

Built upon a foundation of honesty, trust, and dependability, Airline Auto Parts has become the go-to Houston salvage yard for many auto repair shops and retail customers. All of our parts are cleaned and tested before we put them out on the floor, so you can be sure to get a quality part that works great. In addition, we back all of our parts with a 6-month guarantee and if we do not have what you are looking for, we will gladly order it for you. Our goal is to be your one-stop destination for all of your used auto parts needs. Therefore, if you’re looking for a fair, reputable salvage yard that won’t try to rip you off, contact us today.

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Two Types of Houston Junkyards or Salvage Yards

Check out the two types of Houston junkyards/salvage yards

No matter how great your vehicle currently runs, it’s highly likely that you will eventually be in the market for replacement auto parts. However, purchasing new auto parts can get expensive. Add to that the cost of labor needed to install them, and you’re looking at quite a hefty hit to your wallet. Therefore, a great option is to purchase auto parts from a Houston junkyard/salvage yard.

Junk yards buy used auto parts and totaled vehicles with usable, working parts on them that they sell to car owners for less than what the same parts would cost new. One of the many advantages of purchasing from a junkyard is that you can often find parts that have barely been used, extracted from new cars that have been in accidents but could not be repaired. Generally, there are two types of junkyards: self-service and full service.

Self-Service Junkyards/Salvage Yards

A self-service salvage yard is where you search for what you need and if you find it, remove the part yourself. Since you are pulling the part yourself, it’s wise to know ahead of time what you’re looking for, so that you can bring the proper tools for removal with you. Some salvage yards will charge a small entrance fee, but you are given free reign to search every part of their lot. Anything that you find and want to keep, you still have to pay for, but often at a fraction of the cost of a new part.  

Full-Service Junkyards/Salvage Yards

Full-service salvage yards are junkyards that already have the parts pulled for you. Instead of wandering the junkyard looking for what you need, you simply ask an employee or check online if they have the part you’re looking for in stock. The great thing about a full-service salvage yard is that they can save you a lot of time. Instead of spending precious amounts of time wandering around a junkyard hoping to find the part you’re looking for, full-service junkyards allow you to spend more time on actually working on your car.

Airline Auto Parts: Your One-Stop Houston Salvage Yard

Houston is a big city full of both types of junkyards. With so many junkyards in our midst, choosing where to go can often feel overwhelming. Thankfully, Airline Auto Parts is a reputable full-service Houston salvage yard that strives to be your one-stop destination for all of your used auto parts needs. All of our parts are cleaned and tested ahead of time, so you can be sure you’re getting a quality part that works great. In addition, we back all of our parts with a 6-month guarantee warranty and will special order anything we do not have in stock.

Built on a foundation of honesty, trust, and dependability, our Houston salvage yard is a major supplier of recycled automotive parts to both the Houston area and nationwide. Call us today to find the part you need.

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Tips to Purchasing a Used Transmission

Tips to purchasing a used transmission

When purchasing a transmission, one option is to buy a new or refurbished one from a dealership or auto parts store. However, purchasing new or refurbished parts can get extremely pricey, and you might not always find what you are looking for. This is why purchasing a used transmission is a great alternative to buying new.

You can often find used transmissions listed for sale online by private parties or salvage yards. However, when purchasing a used transmission, make sure to use the following tips to ensure that you get a quality unit that works great:

Check For Leaks In The Used Transmission

When it comes to used transmissions, leaks are always a concern. Purchasing a transmission with leaks will leave you with bigger problems that further dent your wallet. You can check for leaks by adding transmission fluid to the unit and seeing if any drips out after awhile. 

Check The Used Transmission’s Warranty

If you purchase the transmission from a reputable junkyard, they should have a warranty in place. Make sure you ask about the warranty so that you can determine whether or not you feel comfortable purchasing the part. Make sure the warranty is in writing, so that there is no confusion or surprises later on.

Ask About the Used Transmisson’s History

Some sellers have information regarding the history of the transmission. Ask for access to this information, as it can help you see if there are any risk factors. You can also look up a transmission report on CarFax, which lists where the vehicle has been and whether it was involved in any transmission related auto accidents.

Trust Our Houston Salvage Yard

While the aforementioned tips are a good guideline to follow when purchasing a used transmission, if you purchase from Airline Auto Parts, you can be sure to get a high-quality transmission that works great. All of our used auto parts are tested and cleaned ahead of time, and we back them with a 6-month money back guarantee. In the event we do not have what you are looking for, we will gladly order it for you. Our Houston junkyard/salvage yard strives to be your one-stop destination for all of your used auto parts needs, so contact us today for a great used transmission.

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Two Ways to Shop at a Houston Junkyard

An often over-looked resource for auto parts is the junkyard. Full of interesting and useful machines and parts, a full-service salvage yard such as Houston’s Airline Auto Parts can often be a one-stop destination for all of your used auto parts needs. From alternators to transmissions, tire rims to engines, our Houston salvage yard has what you are looking for.

For some, shopping at a junkyard seems like a daunting task. However, depending on your situation, the following two ways can make shopping at a Houston salvage yard both enjoyable and efficient:

Browsing Around A Houston Junkyard

Browsing around a junkyard without a definite agenda can be quite a pleasurable experience. For instance, let’s say you have a general idea of what you need (transmission, say) and come to our salvage yard. While here, you browse around our huge selection of quality used auto parts and spot a set of tire rims that would look great on your car. You end up purchasing the tire rims along with a great transmission. As a result, you have now upgraded your car’s condition in two different ways! This type of scenario happens all the time at our Houston junkyard. Customers come in with a general idea of what they need, and end up fulfilling needs in other areas as well.

Having A Set Mission at A Houston Junkyard

The other way to shop at our junkyard is to be on a focused mission. This involves knowing what you need ahead of time, and getting in and out as quickly as possible. At our salvage yard, we understand that when it comes to working on an automobile, time is precious to many. Not everyone has the luxury of slowly browsing our huge selection of used auto parts. This is why our salvage yard conveniently pulls and tests all of our parts ahead of time. Simply check online for your part or contact us by phone, so that it will be ready for you when you arrive. In the event we do not have the part in stock, we can order it for you, and back it with a 6-month guarantee.

Our Houston Salvage Yard Makes it Enjoyable and Easy

At Airline Auto Parts, we understand that shopping at a junkyard can seem overwhelming. Therefore, we have created a full-service salvage yard that makes shopping at a junkyard both enjoyable and easy. Whether you just have a general idea of what you’re looking for, or know exactly what you want, contact us today for all of your auto parts needs. We are here to make shopping at a junkyard enjoyable, while allowing you to spend less time looking for parts, and more time on actually improving your automobile!

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DIY Transmission Installation

DIY Transmission Installation.

If you followed our steps in the previous post on how to successfully remove a transmission, you are ready to install the replacement transmission. Hopefully, you came to our Houston salvage yard and purchased one of our high-quality used transmissions to replace the old one. Purchasing a great used transmission from our Houston junkyard and installing it yourself can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The following are general Do It Yourself guidelines to installing an automatic transmission:

  1. Using a jack, raise your automobile and secure it with jack stands.
  2. Install the torque converter (make sure to fill converter with one quart of transmission fluid before installation). Push and wiggle the converter until you feel three “clicks” each time the converter drops into place. This signals that the converter is engaged.
  3. Install transmission brackets.
  4. Clean off any dirt, grease, or burs found on the transmission bell housing and engine. *Note: transmissions purchased from Airline Auto Parts are already cleaned in advance.
  5. Lift up one side of the transmission and have someone else slide the jack under the transmission pan. Slide the jack under the vehicle. Position the jack so that when raised, the transmission bell housing will be slightly behind the engine.
  6. Raise the transmission and slide the jack forward until the bell housing touches the back of engine. Line up the dowels with the dowel holes and push the transmission forward. When the dowel pins are in the dowel holes, install the bell housing bolts.
  7. Line up the torque converter holes with holes in the flywheel and install the torque converter bolts.
  8. Install the starter. *Note: Get both starter bolts started before fully tightening the bolts. 
  9. Attach all electrical connectors and vacuum hoses. 
  10. Install the transmission oil filler dipstick tube and new filler tube O-ring.
  11. Install cooler lines, shifter linkage, exhaust, flywheel/flex-plate cover, cross member and then driveshaft.
  12. Remove the jack from underneath the vehicle. Jack up your automobile and remove the jack stands.  Lower your automobile to the ground.

Find Everything You Need At Our Houston Salvage Yard

In addition to cleaning and testing all of our used parts in advance, another great thing about purchasing from Airline Auto Parts is that we back our parts with a 6-month guarantee. Therefore, purchasing from our reputable salvage yard will not only save you money, but give you peace of mind as well. If you are looking to purchase a great-working used transmission or have any questions regarding the installation process, do not hesitate to contact us today. We are your one stop shop for great used auto parts!

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Steps To Removing A Transmission

Steps to pulling a transmission

If your transmission breaks down, often the most cost effective way to resolve the issue is to remove and replace it yourself. Purchasing a high-quality used transmission from a reputable Houston salvage yard such as Airline Auto Parts will further save you a substantial amount of money.

Although removing a transmission may seem like a daunting task, it’s actually not that difficult. As long as you are prepared, safe, and follow instructions, it can be successfully done. Here are the general steps most technicians, including the ones at our Houston junkyard, take when removing a front-wheel-drive automatic transmission:

1) Remove the battery ground cable

2) Disconnect the under-hood electrical connectors to the transmission

3) Remove front wheels

4) Move (or remove) drive axles

5) Remove dipstick tube

6) Disconnect cooler lines

7) Disconnect electrical connections to solenoids and sensors

8) Disconnect gear selector and throttle linkages

9) Remove starter motor

10) Remove exhaust pipes and catalytic converter

11) Support transmission with a transmission jack

12) Remove crossmember supports

13) Disconnect from chassis mounts

14) Remove flexplate to torque converter bolts

15) Remove bell housing to engine bolts

16) Remove transmission

Whether the transmission you are replacing the old one with is new or used, it first needs to be checked out. Additionally, the front pump and torque converter also need to be inspected and installed, while all sensors, solenoids, valve body and filters must be checked as well.

Let Our Houston Junkyard Make It Easy For You

The great thing about purchasing auto parts from Airline Auto Parts is that we do all the necessary checks ahead of time, so that you can be sure you are getting a transmission that works great. In addition, unlike many Houston junkyards, we pull the parts for you. Therefore, instead of roaming around a junkyard hoping to find what you are looking for, simply tell us what you need, and we’ll have it ready. This convenience gives you more time to spend on actually working on your automobile.

If you are looking to replace your current transmission with a great used one backed by our 6-month guarantee, contact our Houston salvage yard today.