Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) when Auto goes, how hard to become manual?

[WyattEarp]

Was wondering how hard it would be to go from an auto transmission to a manual 5 speed, i know there is some computer difference, but would it be that difficult to do?

How much would a 5 speed transmission cost vs another weak auto or would i be better off getting another auto with beefed up guts?

 

[Sticks]

If you were going to go through the work and hassle, I would go with a 6 speed, rather than the 5.



Either way, new driveshaft (s), clutch assembly (pedal, master and slave cylinder), shift tower, flywheel and clutch, plus removing the steering shifter for the auto and replacing the collar, ECM/PCM flash to make the truck come to terms with the lack of an auto transmission,...



It would probably be just as expensive to buy a super duper, full tilt boogie, transmission from DTT or ATS, and the truck would be all the better for it.



NOTE - I have not done a conversion, these are just the things that I can think of from the mechanical aspect. I am also a dedicated boat rower, and started with an '01 auto (hated it), that was traded in on an 02 ETH/DEE because I did not want to deal with the aspects of the conversion.

 

[tmckenzie]

So is your auto about to go? Or are you just preparing for the future?

 

[shiffer]

I would also like to do this swap

My father has a 98. 5 w/auto that is going out. I have a 5spd I pulled out of my 98 12v to put in my 6spd. Pops would really like the 5spd in his truck, and everything is a direct bolt in, we just dont know about the computer, or any other electronics. Any suggestions?

 

[John - K5AWO]

I don't think the computer is going to make any difference. My thoughts on that come from the fact that i bought a "spare" ECM to send to Marco to have reprogrammed. When I got it, it was still in the factory box and labeled "2000 CTD Manual Transmission MOPAR High Performance ECM" and more words like "for off roading or words to that effect. "



I stuck it in my 98. 5 auto transmission to see what would happen. Bingo! Instant power right off the bottom just like what I wanted. smooth, docile, but ready to go when tickled.



so, IMO don't worry about the ECM. You already own the 5 spd, so go for it. Just plan on several weekends doing the nit picking stuff to make it work.



IMO you got two things going for you. 1) you got the transmission, and 2) your dad wants it real bad. The rest is history, but you must take pictures all the way and let us know how it comes out.

 

[tmckenzie]

I know when going from an auto to a manual or vice versa you have to switch the ECM and PCM in the truck. I tried a ECM from a 99 automatic truck in my 98. 5 5spd and it wouldnt work. I did some research when I was considering switching to an automatic and found that the ECM, PCM, APPS, pedals, floor console, driveshaft(s), and I think the transfer case have to all be changed to name a few. Needless to say Im sticking with the 5spd.

 

[Marco]

AT/Stick electronics

The ECM has a different file for AT/Stick. In MY 98. 5 The AT file has a higher idle speed governor but that's about all. That means you could use the AT ECM for a stick without problems. Only the idle would be a little higher ( about 75-100 Rpm) than what an ECM with a stick file would do.



The tricky part is for the PCM. The AT/Stick files are completly different.

The PCM would need to be flashed with a Stick file to make it work correctly. Keep in mind that the trucks with the anti theft stuff have the PCM programed for that truck... .



Other than that, all the other electronic related stuff is the same for the trannies.



Helps?



Marco

 

[WyattEarp]

convinced to stay with auto

Hey guys i appreciate all the input and im going to stay with auto, what do i need to do to the auto transmission to beef it up to where it will really handle the Cummins?

Can i do this before the auto goes or need to wait until the transmission starts slipping bad, its not slipping now im just preparing for when it does as i have 92111 miles on the stock transmission.



Thanks you guys are wonderful Oo.