I am in the process of installing an overdrive transmission in my '51 Ford. I have four transmissions, two '49-'50's and 2 '51's. Because of the differences, I would really like to use one of the '51's. I made a bracket and mounted the first '51 transmission on my engine stand. I removed the side cover, and all the gears and everything look good (even the lube looked decent).
What I am wondering is if there is some way I can determine whether this transmission is in good shape or not (appearances can be deceiving). Specifically can I get into it with some feeler gauges and check the clearances in the gears and synchronizers to determine if it is serviceable or not? Would Van Pelt's book have the information I would need to check this out?
Quite frankly, I am too old and stiff to pull the whole thing apart and do a complete rebuild, especially if it is not necessary.
Any advice would be appreciated.