1. What is the number on the metal tag? What's the number on the paper sticker on the case top cover? Do they match? The number with be 1352 - XXX. The numbers cast on the metal are not important.
2. Is it a World Class or Non-World Class T5?
3. How many splines does the input shaft have?
4. How long is the input shaft?
5. What year, make, and model vehicle did it come out of?
6. How was this T5 used? Hot Rod or Daily Driver?
7. Is it really a 5 speed or a 4 speed. (Yes, there is such a thing as a T4 = 4 speed).
8. Has it ever been rebuilt? Who did the rebuild?
9. How many miles are on the T5?
Here's a pre-purchase visual inspection checklist.
1. Check the Countershaft Gear Bearing Cup on the front of the case to see if it's a World Class or Non-World Class T5.
2. Does the case have a Chevy bolt pattern (with ears) or a FORD pattern?
3. Are the words "Borg Warner" cast on the case, top cover and tail shaft housing?
4. Inspect the input shaft for - number of splines, length of the input shaft from the tip to the front of the case, look for damaged or twisted splines on the input shaft.
5. Does the shifter work properly.
6. Do the input and output shafts spin freely in all gears and neutral?
7. Does the case have ATF or Gear Oil inside?
8. Dextron ATF stickers on the outside of the case may indicate that it's a WC T5.
9. Check the case for cracks or damage.
10. Does it have a cable style or electronic pulse style speedometer output on the tail shaft housing?
11. Check the case "flower" casting marks to help identify the year.