So snowsquall was kind enough to try to get me divorced this week by pointing out a 300cd with a bad trans cheap....Things being what they are I couldnt resist.
So it has a good running N/A 617 in it, but seeing as a trans needs to come out and a 4 speed in I was wondering......Would it be easier (and more fun) to mount the 4 speed on a turbo 617 I have and remove the old engine and trans as a whole and swap in a complete setup (with important gaskets and seals replaced)?
How does the turbo react with the 4 speed??

Yes.

It reacts fine but don't expect a sports car, the tranny shifts too slowly. The 0-60 time will be the same or slightly slower compared to a turbo with an automatic.

The KKK K26 is a better match for the manual than the average Garrett T3 because it spools up quicker.

A laggy turbo is better than no turbo at all. Upgrading to a variable vane turbo greatly enhanced my cars already fine drivability. It actually makes my performance slightly better than an automatic because I can have full boost off the line and it has less exhaust restriction at full power.

I tried reaching you a few weeks ago ago yours trials with the turbo and how its working out. Ill pm you my #, could use a few minutes of your time.