[BiffNotZeem]

Our '08 451 continues to sit with some kind of transmission issue. If I buy a used transmission and install it, will I need a STAR diagnostics unit to reinitialize the transmission?

 

[gtdump]

It shouldn't. There are aspects that a STAR can adjust, but it isn't absolutely required.

some kind of transmission issue

From what I have seen few transmission failures are due to the actual transmission; it could be you have the unusual example with a failure in the transmission, but it's far more likely going to be one of the electronic components. What diagnostic codes are you getting? Have you checked the shift motors, clutch actuator, TCU, and related harness?

It's entirely possible that an unrelated piece of equipment is faulty and it's interrupting regular operation of the canbus.

 

[SLIVERS]

Nope. Been there did it.

 

[BiffNotZeem]

FYI - the reason that I ask is this text out of the workshop manual:

Initializing
The initialization must be performed using STAR DIAGNOSIS after the following activities:
Removal of transmission
Removal of one or both transmission motors
Replacement of automated manual transmission control unit

 

[gtdump]

I have no doubt the manual calls for it, I don't doubt it's useful too, but in most circumstances I don't think you'll need it. I swapped both shift motors and didn't need it. I did take time to ensure everything was lined up, but I'm not certain that was necessary. I'm not a pro and I'm still learning the car myself so understand my comments are based solely on what I have experienced .

 

[smark]

You’ll find out, if it does or not! Before I’d buy a used transmission. Spend the time swapping it out. You might check you car for any transmission codes. Might just be a software issue.