For anyone who's done this swap before, what does it take to do it, and which generation of MR2 should I be looking at for a worthwhile swap.

I doubt that anyone has done an MR2 trans swap in a Pontiac Fiero. The transmissions that would bolt up are the GM units that fit the GM FWD bolt pattern. The Isuzu box was used for two years but I believe that was specially designed for the 87-88 Duke engines.

------------------
" THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Spintech/Hedman Exhaust, P-log Manifold, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, Champion Radiator, S10 Brake Booster, HP Tuners VCM Suite.
"THE COLUSSUS"
87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H
" ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "

[This message has been edited by Dennis LaGrua (edited 10-28-2021).]

The Isuzu was used in every year production on the Duke powered cars.

Edit to correct.....the 84 used a four speed, not the Isuzu.

( Brain fart )

[This message has been edited by olejoedad (edited 10-30-2021).]

Whats wrong with the getrag?

Avoid first gen mr2 transmissions is all I know. The 5th gear on the first gen mr2 transmissions wears out to the point where it pops out of gear unless you hold it in.

The Getrag is a good transmission.
A little input shaft rattle when worn, and not as much torque handling capacity as the newer transaxles and some wonky gear spacing, but it's a good tranny.

Were you planning on a Camry V6 swap?

Can you do any of this while remaining smog-compliant in California?

quote Originally posted by Xenoblast: Whats wrong with the getrag? Avoid first gen mr2 transmissions is all I know. The 5th gear on the first gen mr2 transmissions wears out to the point where it pops out of gear unless you hold it in.

When I bought the Fiero, I noticed it wouldn't hold in gear whenever I shifted to 3rd. I guess it was from longtime wear? Basically it would kick out a bit and I'd have to hold it in. But on top of that, I was practicing driving manual with it one night and stalled out on the way home. Ever since then, I can't shift into first and or reverse anymore.

quote Originally posted by Decaffrican: When I bought the Fiero, I noticed it wouldn't hold in gear whenever I shifted to 3rd. I guess it was from longtime wear? Basically it would kick out a bit and I'd have to hold it in. But on top of that, I was practicing driving manual with it one night and stalled out on the way home. Ever since then, I can't shift into first and or reverse anymore.

Don't assume a bad transmission.

Check cable adjustment - follow the procedure in the service manual for your car.
Damaged or stretched shift or select cable.

Other things: bad master, bad slave, bent clutch pedal.

As for swapping the transmission, nothing is impossible - but this will take far great work than it is worth IMHO when there are many other options out there. Don't assume because cars "look" similar that they use similar parts.

[This message has been edited by Mickey_Moose (edited 10-31-2021).]