how does the transmission hold up in the 96 xj6.

 

Everything I've heard suggests that they usually hold up really well...better than most. I say "usually" because there's always the exceptions or neglected/abused examples.

Cheers
DD

 

As Doug said, and also take into account the oil condition.

Smell it, look at it, feel it.

If it "stinks", lack of service and/or abuse.
If its NOT red, lack of service and/or abuse, and the same goes for the "feel" factor.

There are examples in our group down here with near on 300k kms are still smooth changing, BUT, the owners change the oil fequently, it is easy to do, so NO excuse.

Some are a little "whiny" in 1st gear, my X300 is, as is daughters XJ40 (same trans), and that is deemed "normal" by ZF, and as long as the changes are smooth (almost undetectable) and no shuddering etc in or out of "lock up" it is considered good to go.