Are the trans none to break or just typical wear on average

Not with the "upgrade" kits. Its a very good transmission. I had mine upgraded from an LT1 t-56 to an LS1 t-56 and put in the kit similar to a "magnum". Cost about 650 in labor to have rebuilt plus parts. I had a company who builds race car transmissions do it, it totaled 1700, but that included a $280 input shaft most people dont need.

Perfect, thanks guys. I feel pretty good about my choice now. Hey Vince, it looks like your shop is in San Carlos, I'm not far from you at all. Is there any guys you've dealt with in the area?

Sorry I missed this....no, we deal with Tick now for our T56 needs.

I have a local shop that builds them for me if you need local. They have done over 100 of them without issues.

A buddy runs a Stg2 style rebuild from them without issues behind a 950rwhp turbo LS9 with McLeod RXT in a lightweight Mazda RX-7. He doesn't launch it hard... but it certainly gets beat on. Shift-Sector 1/2 mile shootout winner....