Your vehicle has an automatic transmission, but are you craving the power and fun of a manual transmission? Here is a piece of good news for you — it is possible to convert an automatic transmission into a manual transmission, however, it is a complex task that should always be left to a trained technician at an established auto and transmission service shop.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE THE CONVERSION
A conversion is done one of two ways: physically converting the existing transmission or replacing the automatic with a manual transmission (whether new or rebuilt). The rebuilt option is pricey but may be necessary depending on the make and model of the vehicle you are converting. You can also convert a transmission without replacing it, but there are a few factors to consider:
- Make & Model of the Vehicle – No matter which route you take, the make and model will determine the scope of the project. Newer vehicles are equipped with onboard computers, so in addition to the vehicle’s physical mechanics, you would also need to alter the computer components, which generally requires a rewrite of the internal software.
- Components for Replacement – Your transmission specialist will also need to replace several components that rely on automatic processes. One of the biggest replacements will be the brake pedal. This will be replaced with a manual brake and clutch installation. Additionally, a separate bell housing, clutch mechanism, and hydraulic or manual clutch system will need to be created and the driveshaft may also need replacing. While some parts can potentially be sourced from a donor vehicle, some may need to be fabricated, with the overall job potentially costing 2 – 4 times more than the average automatic transmission repair.
- Expertise – It is not impossible to convert your automatic transmission into a manual one, but it is quite complex and labour-intensive. It requires experience with mechanics, and you will need to have the right tools on hand that go beyond the average toolbox. Due to the nature of the conversion, it is best to leave the job to a reputable transmission shop in Calgary, Lethbridge or Medicine Hat.
TAKE YOUR VEHICLE TO A TRANSMISSION SERVICE PROFESSIONAL
Conversions are not for the inexperienced and should not be done as a DIY project. Instead, you should take your vehicle to a company that specializes in manual transmission services in Calgary. The team at National Transmission can help you convert an automatic transmission into a manual one. We have six convenient locations spanning from Calgary to Medicine Hat. Instead of risking the integrity of your vehicle, let our team help you with the conversion process.
Schedule your transmission conversion appointment or call us for more information at one of our six convenient locations. You can also ask a question online by emailing one of our locations.
