In a message dated 4/21/2003 10:29:56 PM Eastern Standard Time, aatransaxle@juno.com writes:

> Steve...Most likely the 3/4 slider is history.  I have seen a few late
> model factory sliders break and that is why I use a custom built one made
> out of tougher stuff..
> It also could be the shift fork, but that is rarer than a
> slider
> problem. Call if you have any questions.
> Daryl of AA Transaxle
> Duvall, WA. (Seattle area)
> (425) 788-4070
> 1-877-377-0773 (toll free)
> aatransaxle.com (web site)

Hi Daryl,
I have decided to install a used transmission with 74k miles on it.  Sure its a risk but presumably no more so than buying a van with those miles.   Maybe I will pull the old one down just to see what failed.  It does not turn freely in 4th compared to the other unit I just got.
In your experience is there a way to reduce the risk of this failure?
Certainly the square corners on the part are a "k" factor or stress riser but from what specifically does the stress arise?
Presumably when the outer part slides over the inner part, there must be bending that results.
How can this bending be reduced except by reducing the drag across it as the changer part goes from side to side?
I would have thought that a good slippery synthetic oil would reduce this but maybe if the oil is too slippery the synchromesh rings wont work properly?
Am I way off on this ?
I am trying to apply the ounce of prevention even if your business depends on the pound of cure!

cheers,
Steve Cotsford
Columbia SC