is there any way to tell the difference between a regular t5 and a t5 z-spec without the tag #?

 

It'll have a 2.97 first gear and a .68 5th. You might be able to determine that by putting it in gear and looking at the relationship between the input and output shafts, while you turn the input shaft. A 2.97 gear ratio is a lot closer to three to one (for counting purposes) versus any other T5 that would have a 3.31 first gear.

 

true or not true?
I was looking into buying a Z spec today and the guy selling told me the tag was lost a long time ago but does remember that the id # was 1352-249.. and as proof he said only z spec transmissions use a pocket bearing (simular to a wheel bearing) and regular WC T5's use 15 individual loose needle bearings inside were the main shaft and input meet.

 

I think that is true.

 

That's correct, per this chart:
http://www.moderndriveline.com/Techn...ssion_spec.htm

 

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