Did you fill the trans, then let it warm up to the correct temperature, and check the drain fluid level? The trans fluid level is very particular in these cars. If you get it wrong the trans won't be happy at all.

I wouldn't do a powertrain swap if the engine is in decent condition. You said it has white smoke but is it throwing codes or running rough? If the only things that are broken are the transmission and ABS actuator then just fix those things, don't go adding to your to-do list. You will need access to Techstream to reset the ABS servos position, try and perform an ABS Servo reset, Really start with a whole brake system fluid flush, then do the servo reset. That's all the actuator may need. But forum wisdom is correct once the servo seals start leaking new fluid won't fix it and you have to replace the entire module. I think they are 800-1200 on ebay.

I wouldn't buy another salvage car to fix your currently not working car. No telling what you'll get. Also no need to powertrain swap as they are the same transmission/engine, so you're not gaining anything. The parts are all roughly the same from the engine/transmission from 2007-2017. (AWD/RWD)

So 4k for the car 3-4k for a trans rebuild (maybe less if you deliver the transmission to the shop yourself), then maybe 1k for a used ABS actuator unit. That's all a lot of work tho. And when you're spending 9-12k on a 200,000+ LS460, you should of just bought one that you test drove locally.

 

I agree, should’ve gotten a functioning one instead. I really appreciate all your input, I’m making phone calls to see how much shops charge to rebuild the transmission.

again really appreciate your input

 

no I didn’t realy check, I just filled it to the point where it was dripping and called it a day. The only codes it has are for solenoid nothing about the engine. I checked another Ls a 2010 and it still has the same smoke when I rev it up.

 

Good luck man, you are ambitious... reminds me of this.

 

I always loved that song. Thanks for bringing back for me!

 

Guys a question please, so I am still looking for a donor car. My question is which models can I get the transmission out of? Am I good from07 to 17? Or there are some variations in there?

Thank you

 

I think you already have your “donor car”.

 

These Tranny's are finicky. There is an overflow on the bottom and filler on top. Mine was less than a quart low and barely moved, had to put on rack and put in drive with warm fluid to get right amount. Wild but true.

 

I think you should do the correct transmission fill procedure before writing it off as a loss. And then replace the valvebody solenoids. As I understand you can replace the solenoids individually after taking off the trans pan. Best done at a shop that's done it before.

 

Based upon many threads posted here about transmission issues, Dan25Man has the right idea. A shop that knows Lexus and has Techstream, drop pan, take a look, fill fluid proper procedure. If that doesn't work, then address solenoids. Cheaper than replacing transmission that may be fine. These are considered to be well built and almost bullet proof. Another item that comes up as an issue is the torque converter. From all I've read here, replacing transmission is not the first angle of attack. Do some research here rather than just a few opinions.