So I'm looking to buy myself a Camaro. I went and test drove a 91 RS for sale locally, and everything seemed to be fine. No problems with the trans shifting up or down while driving, comes off the line and accelerates well. When I got back tot he guys house, pulled it up to the curb, I couldn't get it to back up; it just stays parked and revs while in R. Tried running thru the rest of the patten, it stays parked in park, but wants to drive while in N. I'm assuming it's a 700r4, but I don't know that for sure (everything looks to be original).

Seller said he hadn't had any problem with it before then. He doesn't seem the most mechanically inclined, but i get the feeling he's not trying to just cover up a problem he already knew about. Was also willing to come down on the price when this came up (I think he was nervous about loosing a possible sale-he's had it up for a while but don't think there was much interest) Could this be simply something off with the linkage, or is it more likely something wrong with the tranny itself? From what I've read, it seems the gears tend to go at once if it's something internal.

Worst case, I have to replace/repair the transmission, what am I looking for as a cost? Probably have to have a shop do it, but I also have the possibility of putting it in myself to save the labor.

 

Might be putting money down on this soon. I'd appreciate any input you guys might have.

 

Used units sell for $100-$500 with $250 being common in my area. Labor is about 3 or 4 hrs to swap, depending on experience, tools and ability.
Rebuilds vary from $500- $2500 depending on mods, upgrades etc.
No reverse is likely an internal problem. Repairing an internal trans problem is usually not wise. Too much time and labor. Rebuild are usually justified if the trans comes apart.

 

where is it located