I've done most jobs on cars but never changed an auto gearbox

One of my cars now needs a new 'box and given that it isn't a one tonne version for the Daimler and that they seem to be cheap secondhand I'm considering giving it a go

Is it more diificult than changing a manual with clutch?

In my simple mind it's going to be easier, like a one component swap, but is it?

 

I've not done one, but yes, in theory it's more-or-less the same.

Remember to drain the oil from the torque converter before unbolting it from the flywheel - that's where most of the ATF lives.

I should imagine the biggest problem is getting precisely the correct spec unit, to talk to your ECU properly. Not all ZF 6HPs are born equal.

There's quite a history of converting NSXs and Preludes from auto to manual, so what you're proposing ought to be much more straightforward.

 

I thought about it for half an hour and decided it would be too messy and too awkward without the lifts and specialist equipment I will have in my next garage.

 

Yeah - they are a bit heavier than a Mk2 Escort box that you can put on one shoulder.

 

85kg plus the torque converter

a bit much, one handed, flat on your back, even for me

 

Nick, people have done NSX auto to manual?? Never knew that!

 

Yes, it's quite popular-ish, for some reason. Probably related to autos being relatively cheap & commonplace.

Especially if they want to rice the 3.0 engine, the torque-area profile camshafts are likely to be ditched, anyway. So it's not really a disadvantage.

 

I was earlier presuming you still had the four-poster and access to a tranny jack trolley.

Without those, yes; forget it!

 

Given the amount of auto ones and the proce difference i guess it's not surprising, just not heard of it. Always thought auto NSX was pretty bizarre but there's a lot of them!

(apologies Gad)

 

no worries Mark

my delusion was short lived

perceived wisdom was always that the NSX conversion was difficult and not cost effective

I suppose the current asking prices for manuals may have changed that

still be a conversion ateotd though

only irrelevant if you plan to keep the car forever