Dauntless 225 / T-86AA / DANA 18 rebuild questions???

OK, so I'm taking the combo to a machine shop tomorrow. As far as the motor goes,, when I parked it - no knocks, no smoke, good starts,,, just oil leaks. The cylinder walls looked great, the bearings all appeared to be OK, the lifters had no visible wear, and the heads were clean.

The tranny/transfer case both shifted well. No brass or metal shavings were prominent when draining the oil,,, just leaks (same as the motor ).

The reason for taking it to a machine shop was that I'm attempting a frame off,, so I didnt want to stick a leaker onto a redone frame/suspension roling chassis.

I'm quite new at this (motors and transmissions), and wanted to know if any of you had a list of usual questions to ask?

Thanks for any help.

 

Based on your description, it sounds like all you need is gaskets & seals. Why spend the $$$ on an overhaul?

 

Does the machine shop rebuild transmissions and transfer cases? Most don't. Have you discussed your needs with them ahead of time?

 

Just having the machine shop mic everything and give me some piece of mind. If it needs work, I want to do it now while everything is apart. I'm hoping not to have much machining done if I can get away with it, but if it needs it,,,, I want to do it now.

I spoke with the machine shop. He claims to work on transmissions and transfer cases. I have asked for some references from the owner, and spoken with several customers (many of whom I know) and all have had nothing but good words about the shop and quality of work.

LikeI said, I'm new at this. I've managed to rebuild the axles, steering box, replace all brakes and lines, and hang the new suspension. I'm definitely learning as I go, and to be honest, I just wanted to take the engine apart to see how it works. I've been able to figure everything else out, but wanted a professional opinion on the motor/transmission.