914 reconditioned gearbox sitting, how long is to long? Options

[Creamsicle New Zealand]

Hi all.
It's been a while since I last posted, still check in every day before starting work with a cup of coffee to see who's doing what, always interesting.

I have a question for the collective -

I have a fully reconditioned 914 gearbox waiting to be installed. Gearbox was reconditioned about 4 years ago. Reconditioner was a well-regarded gearbox expert (he built many reliable gearbox's for racing VW off roaders etc.) and has since passed away, huge loss for VW air-cooled folks as he was also a great engine rebuilder and a wealth of knowledge.

I imagine he would have used the correct procedures i.e. grease and oil to the gears etc. during the rebuild.

He told me not to fill the gear box with oil until installation. Not sure why.

Occasionally I turn the main shaft to ensure its still turn freely.

As its still waiting for install and I think it may be couple more years before it goes into car I'm wondering how long it could be left without gear box oil in it and if I should be doing anything in particular to ensure it remains good?
Thanks in advance for any input.
Cheers Steve

[ctc911ctc]

If it was built by someone 'reputable' it was assembled with lubrication that will protect the parts that easily tarnish/rust.

I have rebuilt a few of these and recently purchased one that was drained in 1984 after the car caught fire - trouble-light, gas-filter change and the owner never worked on Fuel Injected cars prior - the gas sprayed onto the hot bulb......... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif)

I picked up the transmission 70 tail shifter during the past winter and was going to harvest it. When I opened the case it was perfect - only a first sync ring was necessary.

So, the case was dry since 84, no internal corrosion, stored in a barn in CT.

You mileage may vary