Sm465 going in, what to check?

[Stomis]

Well I'm finally gonna start with the trans swap probably tomorrow. What can I check on the new one visually before putting it in? I was thinking about putting my top plate on it. Is it hard? I've never had one of these apart...

Has anyone done anything where the shifter goes into the trans to water proof it? I was thinking about making some sort of boot of some type.

 

[mnstrburbon]

I don't think you need to worry about the shifter boot seal idea.

Check the front bearing retainer (aka) where the throughout bearing rides if it good and it shifts through all the gears you are good to go.Is the top cover not installed you only need to remove the shifter to install the transmission.