Replacing transmission due to reverse not working

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The half kit he's speaking of is one that has just gaskets and seals. It does not contain bands or clutch friction discs or steel plates. The kit and reverse clutch plate can be seen at the links below.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Auto-Trans-Reverse-Clutch-Backing-Plate-ACDelco-GM-Original-Equipment-24200951/223360876693?fits=Model%3AL200%7CMake%3ASaturn&epid=75035772&hash=item3401588095:g:85IAAOSwSK1bJOSx:rk:4:pf:0

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Auto-Trans-Overhaul-Kit-PIONEER-750204/292661284730?fits=Model%3AL200%7CMake%3ASaturn&epid=112805530&hash=item4423f8cf7a:g:-gcAAOSwISNblq1H

As you can see you're looking at around $300.00 there. I don't recommend going into a transmission and not replacing friction material and bands. This kit is a little over $400.00

https://www.ebay.com/itm/4T40E-Master-Rebuild-Kit-4T45E-4T40-Transmission-Overhaul-Automatic-Transaxle-GM/382749927178?fits=Model%3AL200%7CMake%3ASaturn&hash=item591dac670a:g:NksAAOSwD Fb1LID

Unless your friend has rebuilt a few of these specific transmissions, I would advise going with a one from a salvage vehicle that had low miles. There are some on eBay for under $400.00 and you could also search at car-part.com