Does it pop out of first gear when you lift the throttle?

Lost of times thats the thrust plate for the transmissions main shaft. Not too bad a fix if it has not gone too far. Gone to far it can wear the shifter forks and put a bit of metal in the bearings.

Fixed properly the tranny is decent and will hold up very well.

With a good alligment and a properly running engine 19-21 mpg is reasonable (stick and stock sized tires if you stay around 65-70 mph).

Kevin

87 Turbo Intercooled Raider, roller cam, torsen rear diff, LSD front diff, lockup auto with modified converter, V6 brakes, low transfer case gears...