123 manual transmission

[1eugene445]

Has anyone ever tried to install a manual transmission and shifter, like from a 240D for example, into a 123 body 300 Diesel car? The US models of the 300 Diesel only came in automatic to the USA I believe because I have never seen a manual equipped car.
Eugene in NC

[Maxbumpo]

Yes, this is a common swap. Best course is to have donor and recipient side by side. "Gotcha's" are balancing the donor flywheel to the recipient's equivalent (name escapes me at moment - big metal disc attached to rear of crankshaft) and getting the driveshaft length correct (may required cut/splice by qualified shop).

If done correctly, you will be quite pleased with the result.

Search on this website and other forums. I have heard that two people with all needed tools (engine hoist and air tools) can do this over two weekends (time needed during week to get flywheel balanced and drive shaft corrected).