Initial inspection of A500

Are there special tools involved with tearing doen the front? I'm about to tear into mine, here real soon. The guy I bought it from claims it was rebuilt, but he never ran it. Quite possible as it has the 518 OD tailshaft on it and a shift kit, from what I can see.
No. First thing pull in and out on the input shaft to get some idea of how much end play there is. You're just doing the front right? Tearing into the whole trans is not for beginners. Remove pump bolts and you'll find that there are two of them that have threaded holes for pulling, but you can also pry between the drums after the valve body is removed. spray oil around the pump to help it out. There's a huge square cut o-ring around the pump that seals it, that's why it doesn't just fall right out. Back off the front band adjuster. the strut will fall out. Pry gently between the drums, tap the pump back in, repeat and lube each time until it comes out. The only thing different is if you want to remove the front drum piston. It's a hassle you might want to avoid unless the clutch is worn out.