changing an auto to manual box

[sumo_e36]

how difficult would it be to convert an auto 325 into a manual, i'm gessing the bell housing would be around the same shape so all the bolts would lin up but what about the prop shafts are they the same length and have the same stud pattern on the bigg rubber donut, oh and the ecu will need a change, is there anythin else or is it just the box and ecu, thanks .

ps. were all convertibles auto cos i havent seen that many convertibles to know. thanks in advance

[Brianmoooore]

Easy enough conversion.
Need to fit a flywheel/clutch assembly and spigot bearing to the crankshaft. Manual gearbox, crossmember and gear linkage then bolt straight up.
Prop shaft is different length.
Other work involves fitting a pedal box complete with all the clutch hydraulics, dealing with the starter inhibitor and reverse light switch.
Engine ECU doesn't need to be changed.

[Ant]

Re the pedal box, the only parts that are required are the clutch and brake pedals, the long bolt they pivot on and the clutch master cyl, the rest is samey same, the holes are there in the bulkhead, just give them a tap and the blanks will pop out

swopping the pedals out is far quicker and easier than the complete pedal box assy.

I've done a couple now, easy enough for a DIY job

Sorry Brian, just wanted to add to your post, no egg sucking lessons dude

[senna]

I converted an SMG M3 to manual.
I agree with most of what has been said, apart from the fact that the gear linkage attachment in the transmission tunnel is not present in the smg.
So you can't mount the gear lever.

I cut out a floor from a manual and welded the mounting in.
That is for a SMG (I can't tell you about the auto)