Different gearboxes

[Azazello]

I know that until 73 r4s had "round" gearboxes, the one you can use to start the car with the wheel wrench. After there were 354 gearboxes. I already know different driveshaft are used with those gearboxes.
If I just swap engine, gearbox and driveshaft can I put an earlier engine on a newer car or do I need to change other parts too?

 

[mr-reno-139]

I read your question several times assuming they are both 845 cc 4 speed all will swap over ok
The earlier box is not as strong on syncro mesh and may have lower ratios
It can also catch you out at trafic lights if you are used to later gearbox
Seem to remember gear linkage rod different and possibly clutch cable setup

 

[Azazello]

Yes, obviously both billancourt engines...
I was wondering whether different driveshafts would need different suspension arms or not...
So your advice is to keep the modern one...
But the old one has the cute handle starting that is sooo fascinating...

 

[mr-reno-139]

It was only pre 69 cars with different suspension and steering

 

[Azazello]

It was only pre 69 cars with different suspension and steering

Many thanks!

 

[angel]

The starting handle "option" was available up to 1971 model year. '72 and '73 gearboxes were also 334 with modified primary shaft and front cover, as the starting handle dog was un-cool...
Apart from driveshafts you will need new clutch and speedometer cables, and gearbox mount. The speedometer itself will read wrong if it comes from a later car.
Besides the starting handle, I equally love its 1st gear whine and the "dogleg" gearchange pattern that is so practical. 1st-reverse and 2nd-3rd on the same line, makes parking and city driving so sweet!

 

[Azazello]

Since I have the old gearbox available, I am seriously thinking of putting it on the 75 export I am restoring...
Without dismantling anything, Is there any way to see if the gearbox is damaged or still good from the external? Obviously it turns smoothly from the engine side cam.

 

[mr-reno-139]

The syncromesh on 2nd could be weak as this is common but provided oil was clean when it was drained worth fitting to find out I guess
I thought the 72 and 75 clutch is the same as both are diaphragm type only early pre 1970 had coilspring type