Opinions on buying used trans
Opinions on buying used trans I'm currently compiling parts for a build this winter. Thus far I have scored a MWC 9" with all the add-ons, MWC rear suspension, and a PST 3.5" driveshaft, all for free. Next I need a trans. So after searching, I've come across a Performabuilt Lvl 2 and Yank 3600 combo on CL for half price of new. Supposedly they have only had a couple passes made on them. It's already out of the car, so I can't actually take a ride and verify its working like I did with the rear. Appears the guy is just parting out his build. It is located near my girlfriend's parents house about 4 hours away. So I'm passing it off as offering to go home with her and just picking that up "while we are here" lol. For that reason, travel/distance is a non-issue. Mainly just trying to establish whether or not this deal is worth the gamble. I haven't really been screwed at all, but that still doesn't make me trust people. Any insight would be great, as I need to let him know pretty soon whether or not I'm coming.
TECH Junkie
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 3,050
Likes: 716
From: Poplarville, MS
I would go for it. Even if the trans doesn’t, work you should have a good core to work from for a rebuild. Same as the TC, if it’s bad you can send it back to be rebuilt probably cheaper than buying a new one.
That's what I was thinking. Even in worst case scenario, I believe I'm still ahead. $1500 for the combo. But I know very little about the value of used parts, which ones hold and which ones drop significantly, so I wanted to ask. Thanks for the response!
Moderator
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 7,323
Likes: 529
From: Ann Arbor, MI
I agree with bbond105, but with one caveat....
I would remove the trans pan and examine the magnets for any metal which would indicate a catastrophic failure. If obvious metal, I would pass.
Also, if there is a lot of friction residue, that would give me pause unless the price came down a bit more.
If unsure, post pictures of what you find.
On the other hand, if there is no obvious metal and the fluid is clear pink, you likely have a good deal.
I would remove the trans pan and examine the magnets for any metal which would indicate a catastrophic failure. If obvious metal, I would pass.
Also, if there is a lot of friction residue, that would give me pause unless the price came down a bit more.
If unsure, post pictures of what you find.
On the other hand, if there is no obvious metal and the fluid is clear pink, you likely have a good deal.
Excellent. I'll be sure to thoroughly look it over. Another thing... He listed it as rated to 650 horsepower. Now, since the website lists the lvl 1 rated to 500 rwhp, and the lvl 2 to 700 rwhp, I assumed he had a level 2. I mentioned this and he said yeah you're right, but didn't say specifically which it was. I'm far too **** about the details to just run with that. Is there a number anywhere on the case that I can ask for to confirm which level it is, build date, etc?
Moderator
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 7,323
Likes: 529
From: Ann Arbor, MI
The only confirmation would be to call Performabuilt, assuming they sold to him. I have no idea if they attach a serial number somewhere.
Assuming there is no metal in the pan and fluid is clear, you are getting a good deal either way.
Assuming there is no metal in the pan and fluid is clear, you are getting a good deal either way.
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Yeah, I planned to call them. Just figured there would have to be a number on it somewhere that they would need to look it up. I know it's a good deal either way... I just tend to psyche myself out a little thinking there's gotta be a catch lol. But I went ahead and committed to buying it for his asking price if he would hold it until I get up there on Sunday. So I'll report back then. Thanks for the help guys
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