Still pondering whether I want to do this, but can anyone recommend any good shops in SoCal or the Bay Area or refer me to a private qualified mechanic. Looking to swap my 99 Civic EX from auto -> manual.

I know this isn't exactly the best route to go, but I've already considered everything and I am pretty set... so please no comments that I'm dumb or what not....

Thanks...

DP

 

Dude, you live in orange!!!! Look around....try these guys.
atomicperformance. they have a website but it is down right now. http://www.atomicperformance.com/main.htm

 

incorrect.

atomic is no longer in business. however, the very same building now houses
import builders, and one or two of the same guys are still there. they may be able to do it.

atomic did an auto to manual conversion for me before they went out. the conversion is never quite as good as having a manual to begin with, but i've had
honda technicians say that mine is the cleanest job they ever saw. you sound like you're in the same position i was - go for it - driving manual is the greatest. not much fun in rushhour traffic, but otherwise it rocks.

if you're swapping in a used tranny (most likely), consider new clutch and/or flywheel. you don't know what kinda shape the used ones will be in, so don't take chances - the labor alone to replace either is insane. at the very least, resurface the flywheel and get an si clutch (or type r or gsr if they'll fit).

you'll have to source some parts from junkyards or parts dealer; pedals (yes you'll need those!) shifter/boot/****, cables, etc...

best of luck. you'll be happy you did it.

 

'pearle' on the dyno at the shop formerly known as atomic.


[Modified by ruthless013, 11:24 PM 12/12/2001]

 

ruthless013

Thanks for the info, just curious, how much did it cost you and how did it take?

What exactly do you mean that it'll "never be as good" just curious as too what doesn't make it quite as good...

I emailed import builders, but they somewhat reluctant, any other recommendations?

Thanks again...

DP

 

among other things, when you take out the auto shifter, there's a big hole that has
to be covered. when they did mine, they welded metal over the hole. i don't expect water to come through or anything, but it's not as nice as stock.

i get occasional squeaks, which may just be shifter bushings, who knows...

i think my car is louder on the inside. i've been in si's, and they just seem a little quieter. i think i get more road noise from the hole(s).

or i might just be paranoid.

hard to price the tranny swap alone, b/c i swapped motors at the same time.
figure the price of the used parts (you can call for quotes) plus some serious labor.

let me know how it goes.

 

Thanks for the info,

Anyone else with other recommendations or experiences? Could really use it, so any and all comments would be welcome and appreciated...

DP