I am wondering how possible is it to switch out my automaitc transmission over to a manual 4 speed?

I have a chance to buy a 1984, (very well worth the money) just like mine other than it has a manual 4 speed transmission. The car has been rolled, but everything is there for a complete transmission swap. It this even possible?

I also wonder about changing the ECM, since mine is for an automatic or would that matter any?

thanks, John

[This message has been edited by John N (edited 08-30-2009).]

Too bad you are not closer. We would gladly trade you most of the parts necessary to do the conversion. We have a low miles 4 speed and shifter My swaps mostly go the other way from manual to auto so I can always use an auto shifter mechanism and cable.
To convert to 4 speed you will need the shifter mechanism, reverse switch, Clutch, trans, mounts & axles. You will also have to change the steering column if you are not bothered by the lack of the trans shift lock.

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Thanks for that information.

I am now even considering swapping the complete engine too. This donor car's engine has 110,000 miles where mine is hitting close to 170,000 and I am starting to see where it needs freshening up and I know my auto transmission will needs some major service before to long too.

To me, the hardest part will probably be getting the shift cables and the hydraulic clutch line ran. I am sure there is some other stuff I am not thinking of, but this is a good place to start,

Maybe this is just a shot in the wind, but I would really like to have a manual transmission again and for 200 bucks for a donor with everything I need makes this sound even better.

If you have a complete donor car you can get it done. I went the other way also but for me one of the difficult parts was switching out the pedal assembly. It's a tight fit but you can do it. I was able to do it without removing the dash or anything. Just had to undo a couple of the wiring clamps and push the bundle back as far as I could.

quote Originally posted by John N: I am wondering how possible is it to switch out my automaitc transmission over to a manual 4 speed? I have a chance to buy a 1984, (very well worth the money) just like mine other than it has a manual 4 speed transmission. The car has been rolled, but everything is there for a complete transmission swap. It this even possible? I also wonder about changing the ECM, since mine is for an automatic or would that matter any? thanks, John

yeap.. absolutely possible.. howeveer, that auto tranny will get better gas mileage than yoru typical 4 speed on an '84. if you MUSt switch to manual, make sure it is out of an '85 or later V6, you will get the performance with better gas mileage, not just the performance

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'84 2m4, 4.9L Caddy, 4-speed econo muncie, A/C, power steering, wowie sauce.
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Two years ago, I found the Fiero I wanted except that it had an automatic and I wanted a 5 speed.

I emailed Ed Parks of The Fiero Factory with the same question and he strongly advised me that if I really wanted a 5 speed, I should buy one with a 5 speed.

You can do it but if you don’t own the car yet, get a manual transmission car instead from the get go. It is easier to find one than it is to make the change.

FYI: I bought the one with the automatic and have no regrets.

Think about it the next time your cell phone rings. Also, with Fieros’ other than light steering, it is nice to have two hands on the wheel most of the time.

[This message has been edited by gem1138 (edited 09-02-2009).]

quote Originally posted by stickpony: yeap.. absolutely possible.. howeveer, that auto tranny will get better gas mileage than yoru typical 4 speed on an '84. if you MUSt switch to manual, make sure it is out of an '85 or later V6, you will get the performance with better gas mileage, not just the performance

Well not to concerned about economy only get 20 MPG now with my automatic. Unfortunately the one I can buy is an 84 like mine, so I will have to go with it. Just looks like it may take some work, but I really don't feel my automatic is long for this world, so this is a option, just not sure if it's feasible or if it's going to be a real pain to switch.

In any event, I am buying the car there are tons of good parts that I can use on mine.

[This message has been edited by John N (edited 09-02-2009).]

My one other concern is what about the wiring? The backup lights and safety neutral switch is on the automatic transmssion selecter lever on the transmsssion itself. Where is this on the manual transmission?

I am thinking maybe a switch on the clutch pedal and the backup light switch on the shfter in the console?????

I want to swap out my engine compartment wiring, since mine has been butchered up with the one in this new 84 donor, which is in really good unmolested shape, maybe that will fix all my concerned on the wiring.

John

yup - that is exactly correct
there are many threads on this
and - I think there are 2 V6 harnesses in "The Mall" right now