My current 1988 340 has a 4 speed box and my previous 1989 one had a 5 speed box, am I correct in thinking the 5 speed only came into action from 1989? Its also awkward to get into reverse gear, is that a common 340 trait?

J

a 5 spd was optional. mostly they sold the 5 spd on the later years. But the 4spd was still available...$$

if its awkward to get in to reverse check the clutch cable. i had troubles getting mine in to reverse before and it turned out to be the clutch cable snagging/stretched

No, the 5 speed was available much earlier. I can't remember the exact year for a 340, but it's at least 1985, I think. It's a pretty easy (and direct) swap, if you fancy an upgrade...

Reverse...can be tricky. Some examples are worse than others. Changing the gearbox oil can help, but make sure you're confident in doing this before setting off. There's a technique to making it easier: try 2nd then 1st before going for reverse. Checking the clutch cable is a good suggestion. You may simply need to engage it slowly - reverse is without syncromesh on these cars.

cheers

James

the first 2Liter with a 5-box was the 345 GLS Blue Special, that was 1982 i believe.

i'm not very sure but I think the 340s got the 5-speed option quite soon afterwards. so 1983/ 1984 is my guess