Steamwork pets built from scratch (that is, as opposed to an existing pet transformed into steamwork) have the gear gender. Is this (along with the "built" instead of "born" date) retained if a gear-gendered steamwork pet is transformed directly into a different steamwork species?

[edit] Just in case this is useful information for someone seeking similar information in the future: Yes! I used a key and schematics to have the steamwork pet in question transformed into a different species, and both the 'gear' gender and the 'built' date survived unchanged.

Sorry but I don't think you retain it:

FAQ

Against my hopes, I suspect you're right - but the uncertainty here is that going from steamworks species to different steamwork species, the colour technically wouldn't change (or, perhaps just as arguably, technically would change).

I fear this may have to come down to an expensive experiment -- purchasing a slot, building a steamworks pet, waiting a while, and then swapping its species.

...And then those results may also leave the question of swapping via Miracle Potion, ack.

You could always submit a ticket and ask. Be specific and ask about the color you want to change it to. Seems to me there should be a way to get the type of steamwork pet you want with the gear gender.

Aye, good point. I was hesitant, didn't want to be spammy posting here AND submitting a ticket, but I think that's the best bet.

[edit] Staff investigated this inquiry and concluded that it was safe to proceed. Now, having transformed the pet, I can confirm that it is indeed safe! Both the gear gender and "built" date have survived.