On 9 Apr 2005 at 18:57, Zoltan <zolo@FOXINTERNET.NET> wrote:

> Hi guys,
> I was wondering if anyone of you know how to test a transmission that is out of
> the car.  I am about to buy one and I would like to know what condition it is
> in.  Is there a way to find out?  The seller is always inaccurate and misleading
> some. Even if I get one from a '91 unit it does not mean it is a low mileage
> one.  I would appreciate the help. Zoltan

You can check for play at each shaft, and shift through the gears while turning input
shaft by hand, or while turning both drive shafts together. You should find 5 distinct
positions on the shifter with a little playing around.
I'd be interested in knowing how much slop is acceptable in the diff - the spider gears
make some noises while spinning one drive shaft on my new 5 speed (no oil in trans,
b/h off). I'm hoping this is just lack of oil and because the bell is off.

Shawn Wright
http://zuiko.sls.bc.ca/~swright
'85 Jetta D
'88 Westy 2.1L, soon to be 1.6TD 5 speed
 (see progress at http://members.shaw.ca/vwdiesels)
'82 Diesel Westy