You are correct this is a rather large job to be doing in a weekend. You are looking at around 10 hours flat rate. This is the time it should take someone who has done several of these transmissions. The P1744 is a transmission code. It is for the TCC (Torque Converter Clutch) system. This is for the torque converter to engage the internal clutch. There is a solenoid inside the transmission that controls it. The problem could be the solenoid, the valve body, wiring or the torque converter itself. Since you are replacing the transmission you should be ok unless it is a wiring issue and it is external to the trans. The P0455 means you have a leak in the fuel tank emmision system somwhere. Since it is a gross leak more than likely it is a fuel cap leaking, but it could be a broken line a bad solenoid or wiring. This can be done after the transmission job and won't hurt to continue to drive. The 1928 VAPS II code is for the steering system. I will include the diag below, but it looks like you will need a scan tool to diagnose the first test. Maybe the second test will determint the cause. Check this with the transmission out, because it is in the rack and pinion steering, which is hard to access with the transmission in place. It is almost as hard to pull just the transmission alone as it is to pull the engine with it. Just make sure if you are doing this on the ground that you have all wheels blocked so it cannot roll (I am speaking from experiance as I watched one roll while my Dad was under one helping me put a trans in, Fortunately I had a engine crane holding the engine up and it held the car up just as it touched his chest). As for the haynes or chilton out of the two I perfer the haynes, but Alldata is better. You can buy a one year subscription for your car from them online at http://www.alldata.com/vehicle_owner/index.html
This site will also help you with your other concerns to.
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