I would try the airlines. They are by far the cheapest that I have encountered.

I think if he takes off all the stuff we are saying, he will be under the weight limit personally for US army shipping. Thats the route id go.

How many 70lb packages are allowed I wonder for one person?

lets say he strips it of parts, wraps it with a blanket and shipping plastic, and I doubt he'd pass 70, it would be close, but still under. Two packages like that, one 30ish lb package with all the other goodies for the trannys

I forgot about APO / FPO ... you can ship it just like US postage to a US base near you. Why not take that route ?

Well I am gaining hope in the shipping process. The only concern is the trans fluid. They are concerned that it may need a hazmat certificate. Geeze. I sent 3 separate MSDS forms for transmission fluid stating "Not Hazardous" also told them is was drained.

I know this is an old thread, but i have an unusual problem...

I got a 717.422 gearbox from a G - wagon 4x4.

It's 5 speed just like the 717.400, however the g wagon takes it's speedometer reading/output/port from the transfer box rather than the rear of the gearbox.

if i could get some good pictures of the rear cover plate of the gearbox you removed i may be able to modify the rear plate i have so i can put in the speedo or if they are exactly the same, but just with a blanked off section...

What you need to do is obtain the parts list for both the 717.400 and the 717.422. Then you can figure out what needs to go into the replacement. I will look them over soon and see if I can help.
The dealer is usually happy to supply printouts and diagrams with part numbers. That will help. I have them for the .400 but not for the .422.
Remember the output flange can be replaced. Not sure if anything else needs switching over. Thats where the parts list comes in handy. I believe there is a cog on the output shaft that makes the speedo drive turn. You will have to check. Did I mention I have the MB book on disc for these I can share if needed.