Clio 200 questions

[KENEFICK]

Hi, Just looking for a little bit of advice.
Recently bought a clio 200 full fat cup and really impressed by it.

Only ever been into german cars and not ever given the french stuff a thought but very happy with the choice so far.

First question. The coolant gauge doesnt reach the middle of the gauge, assuming possible temp sensor or thermostat fault.
The outside temp sensor hasnt read above 2 yet and although cold my other car has fluctuated between 0-8 over the weekend.
Any common issues?

Second question. Very slight knock from the O/S/F when on rough tarmac or pot holes.
Any common issues?

Third question. The gearbox seems to be awkawrd when cold, seems to bulk up slightly going into gear, very nice after 1-2miles and no synchro issues.
Is this normal?

[KENEFICK]

Thanks for the help, good to know its a common thing and not a fault as such.

[KENEFICK]

Is there a better oil to put into the box? or just replace standard for standard.

I know the Toyota engine lotus exige's used to have crunchy synchromesh when cold and there was an optional oil replacement but customers were advised against the thinner oil if cars were used hard. [track work]

It is fairly stiff from cold but only needs a few changes before its very slick.

Think it is just something to live with.

Will get box oil changed at service too.

[KENEFICK]

Strange to have gearbox internals made of Carbon, is this a know thing?

Brass sounds just a soft and wearing a material too.

[KENEFICK]

All seems well currently with the gearbox and Clio, it is tight for the first one-two gear changes of a cold morning but very nice and crisp once warm.

I can imagine the syncro's being an issue with these as they are high revving and the type of car you go through the box constantly on a nice piece of road.

I am not too concerned currently, I have had previous gearbox issue on my VW Golf and my track car.

Is there any known cost for replacement/repairs