automatic to standard

[nitrometal]

My old 727 automatic is about to give up and I was thinking that I would have a standard shift anyway.  Brewers Performance sells a conversion kit but they said that it doesn't come with installation instructions and I've never set-up a standard transmission in my life.

I have a '70 Satellite with a 383 c.i. and I consider myself a pretty good mechanic.

Is it really to complicated to tackle?   

[Rolling_Thunder]

not difficult at all -  your best bet would be a factory service manual -      its simple man!   Where are you located ?  I'm in SoCal - if you are around and need a hand...    let me know.

[Cooter]

As stated, it isn't that hard, but does require a 'lil bit of welding and cutting of the floor....

In a nutshell, first, you cut the floor for the hump, and install the flywheel for a manual on the engine along with the clutch assy.
Then, set the 4-speed linkage shift rods up, then bolt the bellhousing to the trans.
Then, I usually weld the little bracket for the Clutch ball on the frame right behind the driver's side wheel..If you look in your inner fender, there is an oval shaped hole and that's the access to get to the ball once the bracket has been welded on the frame rail on the inside.
I then, install the clutch pedal assy. and the Z-bar (Called something else in the service manual though)..
Then, move on to installing the trans in the car.
You will have to modify your Auto crossmember in order for the MANUAL trans mount ot sit INSIDE the center portion of the crossmember, or simp,y find a manual crossmember.
Driveshaft should be the same if it's indeed a 727 car.
Then, it's just a matter of hooking up all the linkage, welding in the hump after a test drive to insure you don't have to remove any further parts/make adjustments, as it's ALOT easier with the hump out of the way when adjusting the shifter.

[nitrometal]

That's awesome news and tips, guys!  I've heard some horror stories about alignment and adjustment issues.  I think that I'm gonna do it now.

p.s.  I live in Texas, so even if the traffic is light it would take you a while to get here, Rolling Thunder.  Thanks for the offer though!!!   

[madmike]

The conversion from automatic to manual isn't hard, if you have some mechanical aptitude and a service manual.  The basics have already been covered.  I've converted several vehicles from automatic (I hate automatics) to manual:  1973 Dodge Dart Sport, 1974 Chevy K10 truck, and 1968 Chevy El Camino.  This past spring, I bought a '68 Charger rolling basket case, that was orignally an automatic on the floor car.  I am in the process of converting it to a manual transmission as well.

Where in Texas do you live?  I'm currently staying in the Texarkana area, if you're reasonably close, maybe I could help...

Mike

[John_Kunkel]

Another guy's experience with a trans swap:

http://www.darklair.com/727-to-833.html

[nitrometal]

Where in Texas do you live?  I'm currently staying in the Texarkana area, if you're reasonably close, maybe I could help...

Mike

I'm in Aggieland...College Station, about 6 hours away.  I was just up there a couple of months ago helping a buddy pick up a car.

[nitrometal]

Another guy's experience with a trans swap:

http://www.darklair.com/727-to-833.html

Thanks for the link John.  It'll take me a while to go though it but it looks like it's just what I needed!   

[killer8man]

I just bought a 5 sp conversion kit for my '71 from Hurst Driveline Conversions. The guys there are very knowledgeable and willing to help. They use TKO transmissions and are authorized retailers for them. They also use (obviously) Hurst shifters and components. Everything else seems to be top-notch. I haven't installed it yet, but it should be going in in about 3 weeks (after I'm done building the engine). I'll let you know how it goes if you're interested.

http://www.hurst-drivelines.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=frontpage&Itemid=120

Adam

[nitrometal]

Yes Adam, please let me know how it goes.  I was looking at them also but I didn't realize that they sold the auto to standard kit until you provided me that link.
Do you currently have auto or standard?

Phil

[killer8man]

Phil,

I've currently got a 727 Auto (which will be for sale soon) behind a 440 (which will also be for sale soon). I should be done with the stroker and 5 sp install by the end of Thanksgiving weekend if all goes well, but it might take a little longer due to unforeseen circumstances. I will be sure to let you know how it goes when I'm done. The kit does come with instructions and everything you need to make the conversion. Their customer support is really good as well (or so I'm told). If you don't hear from me in a few weeks, shoot me a message as I'm good at forgetting stuff like this.

Adam

[six-tee-nine]

I started a topic a while backabout the subject.

http://www.dodgecharger.com/forum/index.php/topic,9234.0.html

Still in a project fase so no driving expierience though but one thing is clear : you don't convert to manual if you're on a tight budget......

I have almost invested up to $ 1500 in parts including a 18 spline Hemi gearbox, 11" bellhousing, correct 1969 Hurst shifter in mint condition and a set of 4 speed pedals.
Just paid $ 70 for a NOS lower shifter boot from a member Here (these are RARE to come by)
That excludes the fact i still need a console and a top plate....

Since my R/T came as an auto car it got a 8.3/4 rear so to have that look factory correct i'll be upgrading to a dana 60 also (another 2 grand out of the budget  )

[Aussi440]

Denfinately make sure the you have that bellhousing on square, check the centerline