Yes, a lot of work. And I've driven one. I'm still a little undecided, but I don't know that I'd go through the trouble unless I could find a 5spd, which I believe exist, but are rare.
I'd rather have a nive 700r4 I think. This tranny is just almost enough to put me off the 300D. I'm really considering hunting down a 240 with a stick and just dealing with the lack of power.
I'm an old VW diesel guy after all..
