I'd stay away from the junkyard, just because you don't know what you're getting. It's not like you're looking for a rebuildable core.
What else does the truck need? If all it needs is the trans, then the $800 is worth it. It's almost always cheaper to fix an old car than to buy something new. But if the engine is getting tired or the the suspension needs to be rebuilt, then maybe you should think about investing in something new.
That's just it. The truck's suspension is really tired, doors don't close well, windshield is cracked, a/c died in late September, engine "Drips Oil, Drops Grease Everywhere," and I think I am hearing slight knock in the bottom end. I know if I spend $800 on it now, I'll be spending a lot more on it over hte next year.
As far as JY trans goes, I hit 4 yards on Saturday. Only found 2 trucks/vans that would have had the right trans (A518 46RH) and, guess what, someone beat me to them.
I guess given the problems I listed above, I've answered my own question. It really isn't worth it to do anything to the RC now. I guess I'll just beach it at my shop for now. I'll also be listing my 72 Satellite for sale as is to help get $$ for my beater
I guess my beater budget will be limited to whatever I can get for it.
CHUCKS71 - That's one killer deal you got there. How'd you find it?