hi all
These engines are great motors, there the same blocks used up till 2004 for the tamd range and kad/kamd range engines, now volvo have produced the d series engines. parts are easily available and arent to bad on price depending what you need, yes your correct the the ms4 gearboxes arent the best as the cone that engages the gears wear and may need replacement if hard to engage forward or reverse, best bet is to have the oil drained and see if the oil is discoloured or has lost of bronze filings, thats the 1st sign of a problem with the box, hope this helps