need a tranny

i need a tranny for my 510 the motor is a L18 4 speed. Im loooking to do a conversion to a 5 speed and heard that i can use a 200sx tanny. Any suggestions that are better and how compatiple are they. thanks
oh and costs and shoud i do it myself or have a shop do it. and time

the 200sx tranny is often used because it is the same length as the stock 4spd or auto and will work with the stock driveshaft, but I don't like this trans. because its shift pattern is wierd/lame (often refered to as dogleg)
R 2 4
/ \ / \
1 3 5
this pattern makes hitting 2nd hard awkward, is just backwards!!

As for other trans. choices there are many because the bolt pattern at the back of all L-series engines is the same (4cyls. and 6cyls.)
also, many other nissan trans can be made to fit with a L-sreies bell housing

I am using a 5spd from a 280zx, it is a "long tail" trans. so I had to shorten my driveshaft, but the gears are in the right place.

it basically comes down to what gear ratio are you looking for and if you want to avoid driveshaft modification.

Here is a site you should look at before swapping,
http://home.att.net/~jason510/tranny_ratios.htm
or google "jason grays 510 tech page"
it has gear ratios and model years as well as the short tail/long tail identification and diff. ratios

hope that helps


72 Datsun 510
built L20b race engine
dual Dell'orto DHLA 40's