Possible to convert an Automatic to standard?

[CajunMike]

Any have any input as to whether or not its possible to convert an automatic trans to a standard? Ive long wanted to convert my 79 to a standard but wasn't sure if it would be possible using the original engine mounts. I guess I could buy a parts car and make the swap with the engine too, but that would still leave me with a used transmission(and engine) that would probably need a rebuild anyway. Since my current auto trans needs a rebuild, at a cost of maybe $600 or so I figure if i can get a new standard for around $1900 it may be good to just make the swap. Would it be a simple swap out, of course I would need to change out the foot pedals, but any other obstacles such as a new differential/axle as well?

Thanks.
Mike

[manoa matt]

Mike,

Anything is possible....at what cost? You will need: the 5 speed gearbox, the rear gearbox support, the shorter front driveshaft section, the pedals, the clutch cable, the speedo and speedo cable, unless the cable end is the same as an auto, the interior center console... and some misc parts.

Several members have done the conversion, its not too hard. The auto rear differential has a different ratio than the 5 speed differentials. It will give slightly slower acceleration, but will be better at highway speeds because the car will cruise at a lower RPM. If you do alot of city or stop and go driving, then for sure switch the rear end to the 5 speed version. If you have a powerfull motor with a lot of torque and do alot of highway driving then consider keeping the auto rear end.

check out this thread. http://www.fiatspider.com:16080/f08/vie ... f=7&t=2308

[CajunMike]

Thanks Matt. I guess I should have done a search on that one. Thanks for the link. Sadly (or not) I would consider doing the conversion to MY car before I go out and buy another one. Its been in my hands for far too long and if im gonna dump money into a car it will be the one I have owned and enjoyed(er, fought with) for 20+ years. Sucks that the auto version is not worth as much as the standard. Maybe 10 years from now that will change as none of the cars these days are standard any more and the "kids" won't be able to drive them.

[lanciahf]

Hi Mike, I did it to my car and it was not that bad. The hardest part was getting the auto tranny out. Heavier & wider than a 5 sp. Plus those stupid fluid lines were a pain.


I have a 5 Speed tranny, 3.90 rear and pedal box if interested.

Ralph

[CajunMike]

Thanks Ralph for the offer, but im a long way from even getting to that point. When and if I do get there I may give you a ring. You know, the "banker"(wife) needs to approve the funds first, and first I have to get the car back in road worthy condition which will be an expensive enough undertaking as it will need a pretty thorough workover. This project may be the "icing" on the cake for me.

Just for thought, how much did the conversion cost you? Do you think it would be worth sourcing a nice parts car for the task, or just pick up the parts NOS. I guess one would involve much more labor but may be cheaper??

Thanks for the input.

[lanciahf]

Mike I spent around 700.00,

Used parts
Tranny
Pedal Box
Driveshaft
Flywheel

New Parts
clutch,
driveshaft parts,
Speedo cable
rear motor mount.

I had the driveshaft rebuilt,installed new center support, resurfaced flywheel, new input shaft bearing at the crank

Definitely easier if you can afford a parts car. I did mine piecemeal but it wasn't that bad. Unless the parts car has all known good parts either way is about the same. One dis-advantage If you buy a parts car is you have to do the work twice but you have access to other parts just in case.

[TulsaSpider]

While I would prefer the standard it sounds like a PITA to change all that stuff. I'll just bet you that you could get the little GM tranny re-built for less than 600 if you looked hard enough!

[brad131a4]

I'd change it out with a newer auto and put paddle shifters on the steering wheel it's all the rage. I'd put a 5sp in it then as stated it won't be stolen because in a few years most people won't even no what a manual tranny is.

[manoa matt]

Come to think of it Mike, I have all the parts you would need to do the conversion. The 5 speed gearbox might be expensive to ship from Hawaii