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Converting an auto to manual

Posted: Tue Nov 06, 2012 4:23 pm
by Driftybolox
Hi guys,

Might have found a really nice 325, but its auto.

I realise I will need flywheel, clutch, gearbox, pedal, master cylinder, slave cylinder. But do I also need a prop? Would it just be the front half, or would need a complete prop? Also is the starter motor different?

Anyone done the swap before?

Thanks in advance

Re: Converting an auto to manual

Posted: Tue Nov 06, 2012 4:33 pm
by daimlerman
You will also require a spigot bearing!

Not sure if the auto prop will suit the manual 'box,but this is a common swap and a search should give you an answer.

Several manual 'boxes will fit,BTW.

Getrang 240 as fitted to 320i
Getrang 260/265 as fitted to 325i

The 'sport' 'box has slightly different ratios to improve acceleration to 60mph,but the ratio's are very close to the 'box fitted to the 320i...but this 'box is a little smaller,with smaller bearings.

I have run an ex 320i 'box with my 2.7 for several years with no problems.

Re: Converting an auto to manual

Posted: Tue Nov 06, 2012 4:58 pm
by Grrrmachine

Re: Converting an auto to manual

Posted: Tue Nov 06, 2012 5:14 pm
by Driftybolox
Ooops! Didnt see that! Thanks Grrrr

That guide is strange...why is it teaching you how to remove an engine?

Re: Converting an auto to manual

Posted: Tue Nov 06, 2012 5:19 pm
by Grrrmachine
It's based on M40 to M42, but having fitted my own M2025 I think I'd struggle to remove the gearbox without at least lifting and tilting the engine to some degree. And without removing a fair amount of the engine ancillaries you just won't be able to get a purchase on the bellhousing bolts to pull the gearbox off.

It's probably doable on a hydraulic lift with a gearbox assist, but the Wiki is aimed more at the home mechanic.

Re: Converting an auto to manual

Posted: Tue Nov 06, 2012 5:21 pm
by mark_i
worth grabbing the complete shifting linkage, clutch reservoir and bracket and the manual diff aswell.
Manual props are longer than an auto.

Re: Converting an auto to manual

Posted: Tue Nov 06, 2012 9:52 pm
by mrrodney
ecu will be different , autos dont rev the same as manuals, we converted a civic to manual and on the auto ecu it was gutless,.

Re: Converting an auto to manual

Posted: Thu Nov 08, 2012 7:59 pm
by Driftybolox
Thats not a problem. Its going to be running a Megasquirt PNP.

Thanks guys.

Re: Converting an auto to manual

Posted: Thu Nov 08, 2012 9:06 pm
by shadrack
just done mine other week, starters are same, you will need a prop, also hydralic line, it is doable on axlestands and trolley jacks by just tilting the engine, i have a spare pedal box with master cylinder in, i also have a manual prop, you can have them for cost of postage+ a pint or i was going to weigh it in. gsf do spigot bearing for £2.99 delivered, youll need fluid reservoir, i also have a gearbox mount spare, is your car facelift or pre the boxes are different

Re: Converting an auto to manual

Posted: Thu Nov 08, 2012 10:00 pm
by capnmchl
Gearbox for your engine
Gearbox mount
Front half of propshaft (but propshafts are balanced whole, so you'll need the whole thing, but it's only the front half that's actually longer)
Diff for your gearbox/engine (I didn't change mine, but it depends how much difference there is)
Gear selector mechanism (should come with gearbox)
Flywheel
Spigot bearing
Pedal box with clutch master cylinder
Clutch slave cylinder
Clutch fluid resevoir
Lines from clutch fluid resevoir to master cylinder, and from master cylinder to slave cylinder
Clutch kit, with release bearing
Gearbox oil
Reverse switch
Loom for reverse switch
Rubber insulation bit for the gear stick
Gear gaiter
Gear knob

As for stuff to change whilst it's out/under the car:
Diff oil
Gearbox mounts
Gear selector bushes/bearing/washers
Z3 short shifter
Gear selector seal
Rear crank seal
Propshaft bearing

Can't think of much else. Just remember to unbolt the torque converter from the flywheel when taking the auto box out.