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Our Houston Junkyard’s Guide to DIY Transmission Removal (Part 2)

replacement vehicle transmission

In our previous blog, we started the process for transmission removal so that you could install your used replacement transmission. Here are the last few steps.

How to Finish Removing Your Vehicle’s Transmission

7: Starter

There are 3 bolts holding the starter in place. You will see oxygen sensors, so get the wire out of the way. Next, remove the nut and the metal mount. There’s a bolt that holds the starter in place, and a second bolt may be behind the starter. In this case, our salvage yard in Houston recommends you start from the front of the engine. Remove the bolt located here with a long extension. For the third bolt, use a 1/4 inch ratchet with an extension to remove it. Now you can remove and set aside the starter.

8: Wiring Harness

Start at the end of the harness. Remove the clip with a trim removal tool by sticking it under the clip and prying it up. Now, a speed sensor should be visible. Disconnect it by pressing down on the tab and pulling it out and unclipping it. Next, unplug the reverse light switch and remove the clip again, then the harness is free and you can set it aside. Afterward, remove the dust cover from the transmission and then remove the clutch cable with a pry bar. Next, use a flathead screwdriver to remove the retaining clip so that you can then remove the clutch cable from the transmission.

TIP: place a large plastic zip bag around the end of the transmission and secure it with a rubber band so that when you remove it, if any liquid comes out it’ll fall into the bag and not on you or the ground.

9: Unbolt the transmission mount

You are almost done! Soon you can install your replacement transmission! Slide the transmission jack under the transmission, strap it in, and raise it so it can provide support. Now, remove the two bolts holding the transmission mount.

10: Unbolt the transmission

Unbolt the transmission from the engine by removing the three bolts on the driver’s side, then the bottom two bolts, followed by the two bolts on the passenger side.

You can see two more bolts from the back of the driver’s side. The easiest way to remove them is by reaching from your back driver’s side view with your long ratcheting wrench.

TIP: place the bolts in the order they came out of the transmission so it’s organized for later.

11: Remove the transmission

Last step! But first, take some safety precautions. 

There’s a lot of dust build-up inside the bell housing, and older clutches may be made from asbestos, so you don’t want to inhale any of this dust. We recommend you spray the inside of the bell housing with plain water. This weighs the dust down so it doesn’t become airborne.

TIP: for extra protection, wear a full-face respirator that filters out 99% of airborne particles.

Now it’s time to safely remove your vehicle’s transmission. Support the engine by using your jacks and laying some wood over them to evenly distribute the weight. Then, crank it up. This protects the engine from tilting and becoming damaged when you remove the transmission. Once this is done, you can finally separate the transmission. A pry bar may help as well. 

Next up, our Houston junkyard will cover how to install your used replacement transmission. If you would like to find out what we have in stock, then please contact us so we can assist you.

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Airline Auto Parts in Houston Offers Fantastic Warranty Coverage for Used Car Parts

gears with warranty for used transmissions and used engines

How many times have you gone into a salvage yard looking to buy a used replacement transmission? Maybe you’ve also gone to one in hopes of finding a used replacement engine. How many times have you walked in and realized their warranty coverage is minimal, causing you to raise some red flags? 

Airline Auto Parts is Not Like Most  Junkyards

Although the aforementioned scenarios are very common, Airline Auto Parts in Houston is different. We offer superior warranty coverage that not only saves you money but also ensures every used auto part we carry that you might purchase works properly and keeps you safe.

Airline Auto Parts’ Warranty Coverage for Used Auto Parts

Airline Auto Parts is proud to be one of the very few Houston junkyards that stand by a hassle-free, 6-month warranty.

All of our used engines and used transmissions are backed by a 6-month guarantee following the date of purchase. Our engine guarantee takes care of replacing or repairing the engine; you just need to be able to manage the costs of labor and/or any other expenses that may arise when removing and installing your engine. However, please keep in mind that you cannot utilize our guarantee when it comes to accidents or negligence, failure to follow recommended maintenance habits, and any repair or replacement that has not been authorized by us.

When it comes to a used transmission, it is guaranteed for 6 months after purchase. This covers the need for repair or replacement but does not cover the costs of labor, which you must be responsible for. This guarantee does not apply to transmissions that have been dismantled.

Airline Auto Parts Also Offers an Extended Warranty

To further accommodate our customers’ needs, we also offer extended warranty coverage for mechanical parts, such as engines and transmissions. By paying an additional percentage of an engine’s or transmission’s purchase price, you will benefit from a longer warranty and even coverage for labor as follows:

  • Pay an additional 15% of the purchase price in exchange for a 12-month car part warranty
  • Pay an additional 25% of the purchase price in exchange for a warranty that covers the cost of the used part as well as labor costs for 12 months, or 12K miles.
  • Pay an additional 50% of the purchase price in exchange for a lifetime warranty that offers coverage for parts and labor.

Shop for Used Car Parts at Our Houston Salvage Yard

We genuinely love automobiles just as much as you do, and we understand wanting the junkyard you purchase from to stand by your purchase and ensure you are always satisfied. If you would like to inquire more about our warranty, please contact us so we can provide more information and ensure you continue to enjoy owning and driving your car.

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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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Buying Used Car Parts at Airline Auto Parts Allows for Affordability and Flexibility

When you experience car trouble, such as a dead engine or an aged transmission, you may consider taking it to an auto parts store or a car dealership to see if someone can sell you the necessary parts. You may then go to a mechanic and have them fix up your car. However, even though these options are out there, they may not always be the most economical course of action.

Airline Auto Parts in Houston Offers Affordability

When relying on a car dealership or auto parts store to sell you certain parts, it becomes much more expensive because they have to include their own costs in the sale price. On top of the price you pay for a certain car part, you also have to pay for the labor of installing it. On the other hand, if you buy used replacement engines or transmissions from a Houston salvage yard like ours, then you are getting the lowest possible price for parts that may otherwise cost a fortune, and you can install them yourself so you don’t have to pay for labor costs.

Flexible Buying Options at a Houston Salvage Yard

Another challenge that comes with buying car parts from a dealership or auto parts store is that they tend to have very limited stock. Typically, those who own older vehicles buy parts to ensure their vehicle is well taken care of for years to come, but it may be tough to track down the parts you need at certain stores.

At Airline Auto Parts, we stock used replacement car parts for all makes and models dating back for several decades so that you can have the greatest flexibility and accessibility possible. Additionally, we ship our parts nationwide, so if you are from out of town and have had a hard time finding a specific part but found it at our junkyard, we will happily ship it to you.

Shop Used Replacement Auto Parts at Our Houston Junk Yard

If you are in need of a used replacement engine, transmission, or other auto parts, please contact us and tell us about your make and model. We’ll gladly assist you so you can save money with quality used car parts that will last for years.

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Buy Used Car Parts at a Houston Salvage Yard Instead of 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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How to Install A Used Replacement Engine

You’ve read up on the signs it may be time for an engine replacement. Now it’s time to replace it. This guide will help you successfully install your used replacement engine from our Houston junkyard.

First, we recommend you consider removing your hood and front bumper to give yourself some more room to work. Be careful to set aside the bolts in separate piles so you don’t mix them up.

Next, we recommend you take several photos at different angles so you remember where all the wiring and hosing goes, especially if this is your first time replacing any used car part. After, remove the battery so you don’t accidentally short anything.

Isolate the Engine

You should remove the airbox and air hoses that go to the intake manifold so you can clearly see the engine. Afterward, remove the radiator and the radiator plug. Once all the coolant drains from the radiator, you can remove the coolant hoses that go into the engine. Be careful when removing because with age, these easily get stuck and can break if they are pulled too hard.

You may then take out the rest of the cooling system. Next, it’s time to disconnect the AC Compressor, followed by the exhaust manifold. We recommend simply disconnecting the exhaust pipe rather than removing the entire manifold from the engine.

Now you can disconnect all the wiring. Once the wiring is removed, move onto the fuel lines and disconnect them. Be extra cautious in this step, as the fuel can spray onto your face and into your eyes.

Remove the Engine

Now you have space to work on the engine. Sometimes it may be easier to remove the transmission and the engine at once, as opposed to just the engine.

Once removed, you can lift up the engine with an engine jack and lever. You can hook the chains onto the compressor bracket and the alternator bracket. As you lift it, keep an eye on any other parts that may get in the way and move them so you don’t damage them.

Lower it to the ground and remove the starting motor. After this, you should remove the alternator from the old engine and attach it to the used replacement engine, followed by the starter motor.

Installing a Used Replacement Engine

Now the replacement engine is ready to be put back into the car and secured to the mounts. Re-attach all the hosing and wiring you removed. After everything is re-installed, start the car to check that the engine is running, then fill it up with fresh oil, add new coolant to the radiator, and add transmission fluid to the transmission if you removed it.

Our Houston Junkyard Promises Quality Used Engines

At our Houston salvage yard, we make sure to test every single used car part we receive to ensure it works as good as new and lasts. If you need a replacement engine, please contact us so we can have it ready for you or ship it nationwide if needed.

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3 Signs You Need a Replacement Engine

A car is a hefty, long-term investment, and with regular maintenance, it can certainly last for the long term. However, eventually, certain parts of your car will reach their lifespan as a result of normal wear and tear or, in some cases, a lack of regular maintenance. Driving with a bad engine is dangerous for you, other drivers, and for the environment. Here are some signs that you are in need of an engine replacement.

Increased Exhaust Smoke

A healthy, working engine shouldn’t be releasing a lot of smoke. If you notice that, as you drive, you’re leaving a smoky path behind you, then it’s time to consider that something might be wrong. The exhaust smoke can be released in different colors, with each color indicating a different problem with your engine.

Black smoke means too much fuel is burning while you drive, blue smoke means you’re burning oil, and white smoke can mean that there is a leak in the cooling system. A leaking cooling system quickly puts your engine at risk of overheating.

Engine Knocking Noises

Luckily, noises are easy to notice and are an immediate sign that something is off. Often times, catching an unusual noise will help you solve the problem before it gets worse. In the case of a troubled engine, when you hear a noise that means something is terribly wrong and it needs to be addressed immediately. A knocking and rattling noise that gets louder as you rev up the engine is even more alarming. Typically, this indicates that the engine’s bearings are excessively worn, which will very quickly cause the whole engine to break down, so it’s best to buy the replacement car part so you don’t put your daily drives to work at risk.

Flakey Oil

It’s important to make sure that every time you go for an oil change, the technician checks the previous oil for any bits and flakes of metal floating around. If it turns out that your oil has metal flakes in it, this is highly indicative that there has been an increase in the friction between all of its moving parts. This suggests that the engine isn’t properly lubricated and has now undergone extensive damage.

High Quality Used Replacement Engines at Airline Auto Parts

At our junkyard in Houston, we understand the desire to keep your cherished car running for as long as possible and as affordably as possible. This is why we sell high quality, recycled replacement engines. We test every used car part we stock to ensure it lasts and ship nationwide. If you need a smoother and safer drive without breaking the bank, contact us today to help you find a replacement engine.

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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/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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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. 

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Guidelines to Follow When Shopping At a Houston Salvage Yard

Guidelines to shopping at a Houston salvage yard.

As we all know, purchasing used auto parts from a Houston salvage yard or junkyard is a great alternative to buying new auto parts, as buying new can get expensive. Used auto parts are often just as good and reliable as new ones, and are sometimes the only alternative when looking for parts that are no longer manufactured.

Guidelines to Shopping At a Junkyard

While purchasing used auto parts carries a plethora of advantages, one should be careful when buying. Here are a few guidelines to follow when purchasing used auto parts:

  • Know exactly what you need. It may sound obvious, but knowing exactly what you need ahead of time will save you a tremendous amount of time, and eliminate the risk of getting the wrong part. If possible, bring the old part with you to compare with the parts at the junkyard. If you are shopping at a full service salvage yard such as Airline Auto Parts, show the old part to the employee, so that they can find you an exact match.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Don’t worry about bothering the person behind the counter with too many questions. Dealing with novice mechanics are a daily occurrence for those working in a junkyard. In fact, here at Airline Auto Parts, we respect anyone who takes on the challenge of fixing a car themselves.
  • Be sure the part is returnable. Unfortunately, sometimes no matter how many precautions you take, you’ll somehow end up with the wrong part. Therefore, it’s wise to check the junkyard’s return policy before purchasing. A great thing about our Houston junkyard is that we back all of our parts with a 6-month money-back guarantee.

Airline Auto Parts Makes it Easy

Although some people are hesitant to purchase used auto parts from a junkyard, following the aforementioned guidelines can make the process a lot smoother. Additionally, purchasing from Airline Auto Parts makes it even easier. We are a full service salvage yard/junkyard that strives to be your one stop destination for all of your used auto parts needs. Contact us today to find what you’re looking for.

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A Better Option: Purchasing Auto Parts from A Junkyard

Purchasing auto parts from Junkyard is often a better option than buying from a dealership or auto parts store.

In a perfect world, your car would never break down. Unfortunately, we do not live in a perfect world and car trouble is just a regular part of life. Your car is eventually going to have issues, and when it does, the most cost-effective way to repair it is to purchase the necessary parts and fix it yourself.

When purchasing auto parts, an option is to buy new parts from the dealership or auto parts store.  However, we all know purchasing from the dealership is almost always the most expensive option, and when it comes to purchasing from an auto parts store, you might not always be able to find exactly what you need.

A Houston Salvage Yard Like No Other

A great third option when purchasing parts is to shop at a full service salvage yard/junkyard such as Airline Auto Parts. Purchasing from a salvage yard such as Airline carries many advantages. For instance, you can get great, high-quality used auto parts at a fraction of the cost you would pay for new parts. In addition, because these parts are taken from the exact make and model of your vehicle, you can be sure that they will function and fit properly.

Unlike many other salvage yards in the Greater Houston area, Airline Auto Parts is a full service salvage yard. What this means is, instead of having to roam around a junkyard hoping to find what you need and then pulling it yourself, our Houston salvage yard checks for and pulls the parts for you. In addition, all of our parts are cleaned and checked for defects, thus ensuring that you get a part that works great.

Come to Airline Auto Parts For All of Your Late Model Part Needs

Another aspect that separates Airline from other junkyards is our extensive inventory of late model parts. Finding parts for late model automobiles is often the greatest challenge people face when shopping at a junkyard. However, at Airline, we make it a point to carry a vast assortment of parts from late model automobiles. In the event we don’t have the part you are looking for, we can easily order it for you, and back it with our 6-month guarantee. This allows us to say “yes” to all of your used auto parts needs more often than other salvage yards in the Houston area.

Contact Airline Auto Parts Today

Serving the Greater Houston area and nationwide, Airline Auto Parts is your one-stop destination for great used auto parts. Our goal is to be the only place you need to call whenever you need parts, regardless of the automobile’s make, model, or year. Call us today for the parts you’re looking for.