by J.L. Eck

Created on: April 08, 2009

Changing an automatic transmission driven vehicle to a manual transmission driven one can be an arduous task. The rewards to having more takeoff power and better fuel economy may be outweighed by the difficult task ahead. Only a person having mechanical skill and aptitude should even attempt this conversion. Even then, you may want to think twice before going ahead with your project. Remember, you may have to alter the vehicle far more than just removing and installing the transmission itself.

The first thing you should do is get the service manual for your ride. This will be necessary for even seasoned mechanics as the steps you will have to follow are many and the details can get confusing at times. Read through the sections having to do with engine/transmission removal and installation. This will allow you to "get to know" the drivetrain and applicable components. If you are comfortable with what you have seen so far, proceed to researching the conversion.

Researching the conversion for your particular make and model is extremely important! You have to know that what you about to attempt is even plausible or possible. Newer vehicles have many switches and solenoids, on-board computers, relays, and other gadgets that can be troublesome for this project. Make sure the transmission you intend to install fits. Your local transmission shop can be the place to find the information you seek, but their time is money so they may simply brush you off. You may have to research online, or call performance parts sales facilities to eventually find the information that you require.

Now comes the fun part! To begin your removal, you will need to begin by securing the vehicle for the task. Generally speaking, this includes parking it on a level surface, engaging the parking brake, chocking the rear wheels, and disconnecting the battery. Once you have done this, you will need to disconnect the electrical components and/or hoses that may be in the way, labeling them accordingly. This will allow you to more easily return them to their proper places.

Once you have all those pesky wires and hoses out of the way, you will need to jack the vehicle and secure it on stands. Always use jackstands to support your vehicle! Using only the jack can allow it to fall and cause injury to you, possibly even death! Besides, if your beauty falls to the floor it may destroy valuable parts and cost you money, time, and inconvenience.

From this point you will need to proceed with removing the transmission.

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