brybo86

I currently have a 95 LS400.
I have done major DIY work on it including timing belt/WP and complete starter replacement.
The starter on the 95-97 LS400 is a dealbreaker for me. I never want to do that again.

So

I am interested in moving up to the LS430.
I like that the starter replacement job is much easier
Timing belt looks to be about the same difficulty.
Wheel bearings are part of the hub and aren't pressed in

So that brings me to the transmission

What are the Pros and Cons of the 2 different transmissions
As far as i can tell
5sp vs 6sp
Toyota TIV vs Toyota WS
6sp fluid change is a little more complicated

How is reliability in the 100k-300k range? My current car shifts great at 183k miles.

airchomper

I think both of the transmissions are fine if you change the fluid. It seems like the 5 speeds need their first fluid change by 60k to maximize their life, but the 6 speeds don't need it until 100k. After that, people tend to run the 5 speeds on 30k mi drain and fills and the 6 speeds on 50k miles or so.

When people don't change the fluids, the transmissions seem to blow around 180k for the 5 speeds, and 200k for the 6 speeds. But the 5 speed transmissions are very cheap used (I don't know about the 6 speeds).

My 01 shifts great at 102k FWIW

ancdmd

I was good with fluid changes and the A650E in my '02 failed a few months ago at 180k. Got a used 71k unit for $700 and had it installed.

Fixman

Bother are good and relatable if not abused and tge oil is changed regularly. Between 20 to 30 for the 5sp. And 50 to 60 on the 6sp. But could go longer depending on the usage and environment.
If you live in a hote place and hard on the care the oil needs to be changed more regularly.
Normal use and mantinace they bothe can go to 200k+ no issues.