How can you tell if a transmission is good?

[ichthos]

I have a spare transmission for both my Bugeye and TR6. How can you tell if it is good or bad when it is out of the car? Is this something a professional would need to assess? Is rebuilding a manual transmission something a novice should undertake? I can read and follow directions, but because of my limited experience, I have difficulty telling if something is worn or not.
Thanks, Kevin

 

[DrEntropy]

Kev, this is just my opinion sooo...

Depends on your intent. If you are going to keep them around as spares, assume all the bearings to be suspect, replace the synchro/baulk rings, inspect the gear teeth and replace if chipped or worn to the point you see sharp edges on the ends of the gear teeth. Feeler gauges and perhaps a set of micrometers (tho if a shaft is worn, it'll be obvious) are about all the measuring tools ya need.

If you're thinking of selling them, don't bother with trying to rebuild 'em as most folks are going to disassemble and check 'em anyway.

Just me 2p.

 

[ichthos]

Yes, I want it as a spare. It seem like if I need a repair done, it always happens during prime driving months. On top of that, the part I need will end up on back-order. One problem I face is determining what wear looks like. So, if I am going to do a rebuild, at the bare minimum I would replace the synchro rings and bearings. I would only replace the gears if they are broken or sharp on the edges. If I can feel or see any wear on the shaft, then that would be replaced also? I am not a home to check my work manual, but do most manuals give detailed instructions on how to disassemble and assemble?
Kevin