Okay so an update on the transmission. The backyard transmission got put in, I've put about 600 mi on it so far, and it is driving wonderfully.
I also got it smog tested recently because my state requires biannual smog testing.
I passed and here's my numbers:
Quick background on my car it is a 1991 Volvo 740 turbo wagon with 389,000 MI on it. And while I may drive it hard when it comes to maintenance I pamper it. for instance the oil I use is 15W40 diesel oil from Royal Purple.