So I think I've got enough parts, tools and beer to start my first ever engine swap.

I'm putting the A14 and the 4sp from my wagon into currently A12 powered ute (with a badly slipping clutch). I'll then swap over the top end from the A12 ("gx" head and 32/36 weber) and attach the extractors that are already in the ute too. Hopefully it should have a bit more poke.

So I ask... does anyone have any tips they'd like to share? Any specialty tools I may need?

Another question while I think about it. Are you able to install/remove an A series without removing the gear box?

Yeah you can remove it without removing box same with putting it back in but its a fiddly job and personally i dont like the stress and strain it puts on things when trying to get things out or to line up especially if the motor isn't well balanced on the engine lifter or block and tackle. Would just drop the box and motor together or drop the box first and swap anything over while its out it also gives you a chance to check things out and makes it easy to drop it back in once ready. Also drain gearbox oil unless you have an old tail shaft input laying around.

Yes, it is most easy to remove it while keeping the gearbox in place. Just be sure to jack the front part of the gearbox so it doesn't fall down.

I suggest put the A14 in an go. Even with stock A14 Hitachi carb it will have more poke than the A12 GX head and 32/36.

Then after you got it all sorted out, not overheating and no electrical problems, take another weekend to swap the head and manifold/carbs. Then you'll get another poke at high revs...

Oh yes My bad forgot to mention the old jack on the gearbox trick, Thanks DD

Cheers Andy

What's the best way to drain the gearbox? as I don't have a spare input shaft to bung in there.

I did an A14 swap a while ago and took a million photos here - might give you some clues?
http://mildman.datsunprojects.org/Blue_index.htm

Mildman... hole in one mate, that is great!!!

Thanks for taking the time to put all that together... that should help out heaps!

if your going to drain the gear box there is a bolt thingy oin the bottom of the box or you could just take the shaft out and tip the engine and box... the oil will then pour out the shaft hole

If you are putting the A14 in, you want the bigger gearbox to go with it. The A12 gearbox is too lightweight. It might last a long time behind the A14, but you can't count on it.

And if you're going to do that, it is easier to pull the engine+gearbox together -- especially when putting it back in. It is difficult to line up the transmission with the flywheel when it's in the car, easy when it is out.

Thanks for the tip DD. That was my intention all along. The A14 that I'm swapping in is already running in my wagon so the gear box is coming with it too. Mainly due to the fact the gear box on the A12 has a slipping clutch at the moment, in that state alone I wouldn't have expected it to last very long behind an A14.