What to check on a used transmission

[Csilvy2000]

I found a t200r4 that's been out of use for 15 years. I know this transmission was working when it was pulled.
Should this thing be completely rebuilt or is it worth gambling on installing it with new fluid and filter and seeing what happens? It has been in covered storage during the past 15 years.

Another question. When digging in the junkyard, other than checking the condition of the fluid, what else should be considered when looking for a good useable transmission.

I'm cheap!

 

[Evan11]

If you're on a very tight budget, install a new filter, wipe out the pan, put in new fluid, along with some Lucas trans stop leak, you're gonna need that to condition the seals..once you get it in, take it for a nice, long drive. As far as looking for a good used trans: check the fluid to see if its clean red, yellow, or burnt looking..you want one that has clean red, normal smelling fluid. You dont want one with nasty or burnt smelling fluid. Then check the pan for excessive shavings or sludge.

 

[-83MONTESS-]

After you do what Evan said I would add a drain plug to the pan. B&M sells a drain plug kit for pans pretty cheap.

 

[Csilvy2000]

Thanks for the replies. This one looks clean inside. I was concerned about the time it has spent without being used.
Fresh fluid and filter is on the list.

 

[bill]

A lot depends on the type of trans, the condition of the fluid, and where it was stored.... Some transmissions were duds from the factory, but most older GMs are pretty well made and if they were properly maintained and not overly abused, will last much longer than expected. Heat is the killer of all transmissions, so if you know that the car overheated or had a bad engine, its possible the trans got too hot and was likely neglected as well.