Yes, that's one way to do it, OrrieG.
But here in the Netherlands you won't find "good" used automatics for $50...
I think a good trans stays good with normal maintainance and normal use. I don't plan to dragrace the truck or do other crazy thinks with it, besides drive the heck out of it
So, with my use, it will last I think, although it is a mechanical thing, everthing can happen, right?