85 Manual Transmission/Tcase ?'s

[KSTacoBoy]

Hey guys,

I recently picked up an 85 Reg cab long bed 22RE with an auto transmission.   Well, I have came across what I believe is a good deal but have some questions about it.  I'm planning on ditching the auto trans for a manual.  I've found a manual trans and tcase from an 85 here locally for $100 but it needs rebuilt (whines).  He said its from a 22R which should mean its a G52 (I think) with a forward shift tcase or possibly a G54 from what I have searched online.  Doesn't look like I'll be able to tell between the G52 and G54 because I would have to tear it down to check the input shaft bearing. Correct?  Just from looking how can I tell what transmission I'm really looking at?  Also, should I keep looking or snag this up and rebuild it?  To me $100 for a trans/tcase seems like a good deal but I could be wrong...remember I'm in MO so parts aren't as easy find here as they are in CA.

Opinions?

[530TOWHO]

Rebuilds kit is 300 plus an easy 400 for someone to do it so ur already half way the pri e of a new one from marlin, also with a forward shift u should double up the case wile u have everything out and broken down because of the shift fork u have to put in. Also i just picked up a w 56 with Top shift transfer case and works fine for 350. But this is just my opinion what the hell do I know!