Yes, the solonoid can be checked with hot from a 12 volt battery, it's job is to sustain the out position. You could unbolt it from the housing being careful to 'turn the key' a few degrees to release it, it won't pull out directly. I don't want anyone upset with me for copyright infringement, so I would send information re: the OD person to person. From my limited experience, it's the 3 speed part of the 3sp+od that goes awry, such as the 2-3 synchro and it's ring gear. I did mention a rebuild kit I bought recently, for 50 bucks you can't go wrong; ALL 3 main bearings, ALL the needle bearings, NEW snap rings, small parts, and a complete gasket kit. They also include a diagram that will help you with your takeapart and rebuild. Email me for this vendor, I don't know if mentioning the firm is Kosher. Oh, if you're going to do a rebuild (this is going to sound nuts) save one or two of those wide broccoli rubber bands, you'll need one for slipping the OD housing back on, that's one thing the literature doesn't tell you. The rubber band disintegrates in the 90 weight and will do no harm to your tranny.
