Hi, I am new to this forum but after years of neglect I am about ready to get my 85 4Runner back on the road. Its biggest problem is the transmission, It is a manual and reverse does not work. I have found some trannys on Craigs List for 250-300 bucks but I do not know to much about them. I think I need a W56 but how can I tell when I am looking at them? Is there any external things I should look for that might be signs that something is wrong?
Thanks,
Kevin

 

You will need a w56 from an 85-88 truck or 85-89 4Runner EFI. that will be the only direct bolt in trans with no modification.

 

Here's another possibility, DIY. The transmission in the article is not the same model, but very similar. The process is the same.
http://www.4x4wire.com/toyota/tech/r151f/