2002 impala transmission slipping

Joined: Jan 15, 2008 Posts: 2 Location: Michigan

I have an 02 Impala with 210,000 miles. I noticed last week there was some hesitation when moving from a stop. Fuel filter was replaced but didn't resolve the problem. Yesterday, I tried to pass someone while doing 25mph and got nowhere fast due to apparent slipping trans.

question 1: Is this a repairable condition?
question 2: If not, is a used trans a good alternative? Car is top notch.
question 3: Can a good backyard mechanic with a hoist R&R this trans?

BTW, this car has been excellent! I get 29.7 mph average with 50/50 hwy/city. Other than brakes, tires and regular oil changes I've done nothing to it and it runs great. I'd like to get 300k or more out of it.

Joined: Jan 15, 2008 Posts: 2 Location: Michigan

Turns out this wasn't the transmission at all. It was a plugged Catalytic Converter. The initial feeling was of no power when passing and seemed to be related to the transmission. However, the tech put a scope on it and drove it through all the gears with no problem. But the minute he stepped on the gas, he knew right away it was the CatCon. There was a crackling noise under the floorboard and the engine revved up a bit. But due to the plugged converter, there was so much backup in the exhaust the trans didn't downshift into passing.

Anyway, being somewhat environmentally concious, I paid $350 for a new CatCon and $85 for an O2 sensor plus $65 labor to get it all fixed.

Now the car runs great again! I think my mileage even improved a bit.