Automatic conversion to a manual

[spiderman1]

Has anyone done the conversion from Automatic to manual transmission. I have seen some good bodies out there with Automatic transmission but I want a manul in the car. Besides the obviuos new transmisson and clutch, how difficult would this be? Is the body the same so everything else would fit like clutch pedal etc? I am a rookie at this but excited. I almost purchased a 1982 this week but did not pull the trigger fast enough.

[DieselSpider]

Anything is doable. We even use to put a plug in the input where the torque converter would engage the automatics and put a clutch in them which we would affectionately on a Chrysler call a ClutchFlight conversion which a few performance shops started to manufacture as a conversion for the Ford and GM transmissions too.

You have the time and the tools and just about anything can be made to work.

[redcars]

Everything fits, however it is a fair amount of work. If you have more time then money it may be worth wihle. The rear end is geared higher, witch some people like. If you are intent on doing this I could give you a list of what you will need can add it up and see if you will really save money. There is a very nice priced spider in the for sale section from Florida that would be my choice if I did not have 3 Fiats all ready.

[baltobernie]

Because 5-speeds vastly outnumbered automatics, your question is the reverse of what we usually see. Unless you find an automatic Spider with great personal or historic value, I think you'll be better off looking for a 5-speed to begin with. This is the best time of the year to look for any roadster; be patient.

[spiderman1]

Thanks for all the input