Considering buying 97 camper - how to evaluate AT beforehand?

[1961tbird]

I am considering purchasing a 1997 camper with 164,000 kms (or 102,000 miles) from a widow in Quebec (second owner). She does not speak English so a friend is helping in selling the camper. I get the feeling she is clueless regarding the van.

Of course, I am sensitive to the automatic transmission issue and I would probably install a new timing chain ASAP. And then install an external cooler kit.

But I do I evaluate the automatic transmission before buying?

I could:

1. Ask for copies of service records, if any
2. Ask the owner what, if anything, what serviced on the AT (though the widow probably won't know)
3. Check the fluid to make sure it is pink.
4. Test drive for any slippage, etc.

Her friend mentioned that the van has a towing hitch which has been used. This makes me nervous but not sure at this point in time what exactly was towed (weight wise and frequently).

I understand changing the transmission fluid and filters might indicate a poor condition if metal pieces or bits are found. If so, would part of my due diligence involve changing her transmission fluid to check or is there some other way of checking for metal pieces or bits within the unit without actually changing the fluid/filter?

In advance, thanks for your responses/suggestions.

[Broseph Stalin]

What you said and maybe manually shift it through the gears up and down, give it a workout. Would be nice if it has an AT dipstick.
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'68 Bus in West Germany, 1977-1979
'67 Riviera poptop conversion in the US, 1984-1990
'95 EVC Winnie, 2018, Sold
'03 EVC Winnie, 2018, Sold

[Abscate]

Evaluating a transmission is beyond beginning, novice and intermediate mechanics

Take it the levels 4 or 5 guys, spend $500 for a PPI, and be care free.
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.ssS!

[visibleink]

[Zeitgeist 13]

Other than a road test, the best way to determine condition is the dissect the ATF filter and possibly conduct an oil analysis...assuming the fluid/filter aren't brand new.
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Casey--

'89 Bluestar ALH w/12mm Waldo pump, PP764 and GT2052
'01 Weekender --> full camper
y u rune klassik?