I got me a 4 speed! (and I need some help!)

Alrighty, so I picked up a 1976 A-833OD unit today and plan on swapping it into my 1974 318/A-230 combo. As I understand it, the 230 has a 4.8" IBR while my new unit has a 5.125" (giggity) IBR. My first question is, can I simply take the 230 IBR off and slap it on my 833? If not, I assume I can have a machine shop turn the 5.125" down to 4.8" right?

On to the next one

Any 70 and up A-body 4spd shifter will bolt right up won't it? IIRC the OD units just used a flipped lever on the tranny and the rods/shifter were identical.

On the the last one

Will I need a new clutch and pressure plate? The engine is only slightly warmed over, so I'm not making a whole lot of HP. The clutch that's on there probably has 15k on it.

Bonus question:

I'd like to have a tach, but I don't race or anything so I'd like to get a cheap one that's easy to install, any recommendations?

Thanks everyone, you are always a tremendous help!


****, I forgot one of the most important questions!
The inspection cover is off and it is [mostly] drained. What's the best way to clean it, what kind of fluid should I buy, and what kind of gasket?