Is there a significant difference between and OEM toyota torque converter compared to an auto zone part?
At the lexus part store its $1200 and auto zones ‘heavy duty’ part is $260
This is for an LS400
I can guarantee that part is Main Land China. The OEM most likely Japan but not absolute. Big difference.
Most(probably all) transmission rebuilders use rebuilt torque convertors, and the only reason they would not is the core was not available .
You don't have to pay 1200 dollars unless you are in a small town. Just go to the dealer and say you are Keith for Keiths automotive repair. You will say you are going to pay tax and would like a counter sale. You will get at least 20 % off. Most places will go this way , some wont.
The absolute minimum you can ask for is a courtesy account. I was at a dealer the other day and they would not give me a repair shop discount and I asked for a courtesy discount. They said OK. Then three people at the counter asked and got a discount.
That's not a little job to swap that out, either buy a rebuilt or take a chance.
@larry
So a rebuilt converter would be pretty reliable?
Yes that is what reputable shops would use. If this was a creampuff and you were planning on putting 200000 more miles on it I would maybe use new OEM but rebuilt is good.