I have a 2001 Tacoma 5vE Auto (220,000). When the engine is cold and for about the first 5-10 minutes of driving, I get a bumpy slipping of the engine. I assume it's in the transmission, because it seems to go away if I turn off the OD. Happens most on upgrades at about 50 MPH. Amything I can do except refinance the house to take it to a tranny shop?

 

Does it feel like a misfire? Only happens below 2000 rpm when trying to lightly accelerate? I bet it's your spark plugs. Time for a tune up.

 

slipping of the engine?

do you mean, you're stepping on the gas, hearing it rev up, but the truck's not moving faster?

when's the last time you changed the ATF and cleaned the filter? could just need another maintenance.

or do you mean the engine is stumbly, like sputtery-not running on all cylinders? you may want to dump in a bottle of Techron fuel system cleaner before your next refill, see if it clears up as you run through that batch of gas.

 

Might also make sure you don't have strawberry milkshake in the overflow bottle! IIRC, the tranny slipping is a indicator of this issue. ...or you could just have enough miles on the rig to warrant an overhaul.
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What they all said, it could be something else. Also if you find an honest transmission shop it should not cost all that much to get the tranny replaced.

I just had a complete overhaul and build done to mine for $1100 with my removing it and them installing it. If you did a stock rebuild it should be cheaper if you find a good shop.