I am thinking about buying a 98 or newer trans am, i want a six speed but if i buy an automatic I was wondering how if anyone knows the approximate cost and time that must be spent in installing a six speed. I know that everyone is going to say just buy a manual but i am buy from a salvage auction and dont have the luxury of choosing an automatic or manual. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

I am currently researching this for the lt1 cars but I'm sure the LS1's will be very similar. You will need to change the computer, engine wiring harness, body wiring harness(you could probably just rewire the stuff you need for the manual and save a lot of time on this), pedals, crossmember, drive shaft(I think), rear end (the manuals have a lower gear ratio), console, and you will have to remove the plate that the auto shifter bolts to and cut a hole for the manual shifter. I think thats about it but I could be leaving something out. Now you know why they say to just buy it that way. As for time and money, LOTS. Hope this helps.

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95 6 speed T/A
69 Camaro SS 396 with Twin Turbo 95 LT1 project
http://www.geocities.com/camaroracerlt1

[This message has been edited by camaroracerlt1 (edited August 08, 2002).]

 

You can buy a complete A4 - M6 conversion kit from SpeedAutomotive for like $1500. The labor would be pretty expensive for the swap, but if you're doing it yourself and have the tools it would probably be a pretty fun project. I'd bet it would take a weekend to do the swap.

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- Steve - 1998 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am
LS1 A4, 2.73's, Kumho Ecsta Supra 712 245/50/ZR16's, Direct Flow Lid, GMAF, !FRA, Loudmouth, 3" Y-Pipe, AIT Mod, Fan Switch Mod
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