I did take the tranny apart in the hot rod. I tore it down for a full inspection before I sold it. The "hemi" 4 speeds draw good money if they're in top shape.

I pulled my truck's tranny for a clutch a couple months before trading it. I had the side cover off the transmission for an inspection due to the miles. It wasn't torn down. There was a little wear but nothing significant considering the mileage and the abuse it had been through.

That Trans Am would have had the T5 transmission. They were garbage from the factory. Life expectancy was OK in a 4 cylinder and some 6 cylinder vehicles but any moderate V8 would grenade them. I worked with FAR too many of those things.

It's amazing how badly someone can tear up a low mileage car of any make.