Automatic To Manual Tranny Swap - BMW Forum

e36surge · 07-19-2005, 10:17 AM

Just doing a little groundwork right now. My 1995 325is is Automatic. I got her for a great deal in May and over the winter I want to swap out the auto for a manual. Would anyone know of my tranny options? Manual gearbox from an M3? Aftermarket? Brands? Anyone care to share their experience if they did the same? And of course what do you think would be the possible cost of such a swap. Keep in mind that I picked up my 325is for a steal. I would be making the swap myself with a friend of mine.

Thank you in advance.

e36surge

94BMW325i · 07-19-2005, 10:35 AM

umm I have asked about this also, and I know there are a bunch of threads here about it. When I get back later i'll find them.

mmclaren · 07-20-2005, 06:01 PM

I had a manual swap for my car 2 weeks ago, ended up cost me $3200 au, which is about $2700us.

Most people here will advise you just to buy a new car, but if u ask me, u dont want a knew car, enjoy your one to much so go ahead and get it done, very worthwhile..
Zion motor sport do a few getrag kit for like $1700 then your looking at proberly $1100 for labour..

they also have a few other kits including there 6 speed options, but your looking at $3000+ just for the parts without the labour..

Also when you have it done, look at throwing in a few mods, upgraded clutch, new rear differential ratio, shortshifter, maybe a lighter flywheel,

and good luck with it

///M Power · 07-20-2005, 06:49 PM

It's really only worth it if you have alreayd done a SIGNIFICANT amount of addons you want to keep. Other than that, it would be a better option to sell your car like mmclaren said, and just buy a new used 5 speed one.

I'm just giving you options.

WarNox · 07-21-2005, 08:05 AM

i recon if u really like ur car then do it, i knw tht if i have had a car for a while i'd get it done rather than buy a new car and fix all the problems on it first, same think if u have a 318i or similar nd u've learnd to love it, u'll get an engine swap rather than a new car!?

or i think so anyway, just my 2c...good luck dude!

e36surge · 07-21-2005, 09:29 AM

Thanks for the input boys. I will be buying another e36 but she's going to be the donor vehicle. I found an e36 that was invloved in a pretty hefty accident. The transmission is okay. I just wanted to know what my options were as far as transmission manufacturers were.

I appreciate your comments. Cheers.