[bwarren228]

I'm starting this thread as a discussion about the details of swapping a 6spd into an automatic equipped 2nd gen. If you are just stating your opinion on which is better, please do not post in this thread. I want to keep it on topic and get as much knowledge compiled together as possible.

First off, I know the actual transmission needs to be purchased. Then there are the obvious things like clutch pedal, brake pedal, center console trim, clutch reservoir, etc. Other than the obvious, I'm trying to compile a list of what else would be needed. Does anybody know if the auto driveshaft will work w/ a manual tranny? Also, I dont know if the gauge cluster would need to be swapped. I don't think it would, but since it displays PRND, Im not sure if theres a difference between the two. Also, my main question is about the ECU'S and wiring. What I'm thinking is that this would essentially be "dumbing down" the system and wouldnt be as tough as swapping in an automatic tranny. I guess a new lower harness might be needed, and the ecu would be a big puzzle. In my case, I have a 2wd Nismo. The only 6spd Nismo is 4wd. Possibly the easiest thing would be to get an SE 6spd ecu, and rewire the locker.

I'm not looking at doing a build yet, but this has been in the back of my mind for quite some time. I have too much time/ money into my truck to get something else, and to be honest, would enjoy the challenge of doing this. I would have to wait until my 240 build is done and drivable before I tackled something like this though. I just think a 2wd 6spd. Nismo would be sick.

 

[wolfman437]

I believe youll need a new master cylinder as well. I know on my 5spd the clutch gets its fluid from the brake fluid container. Otherwise what you could do is just set up another container which would work just fine as well. The gauge cluster shouldnt need to be changed but im not 100%, i simply dont see why you would have to. It probably wouldnt be a bad idea to climb under your truck and see what the tranny has pluged into it, and crawl under a 6spd and see if theres anything pluged into that one.

 

[nizmut]

I would say a reservoir, looks like it clips on to the master cylinder.
Clutch peddle assembly with clutch master cylinder, slave cylinder and plumbing.
ECU
Tranny
lower harness, and the neutral safety switch stuff.
flywheel
Plugs for the radiator so it doesn't drip atf for the next year.

 

[wolfman437]

drive shaft might might also have to be altered a little like you said, but thats simply droping it off at a shop for a few hours. Also look into the tranny mount/cross member and make sure they are the same from auto to manual.

 

[bwarren228]

I wonder if swapping the ecu would still let me use the cruise control, or if there would be complications there? Luckily, a buddy of mine about 10 min. away has a 6spd. I can look at to compare certain things.

 

[wolfman437]

just park the trucks right next to each other and get on some roller creepers to check everything under the truck and look at the ecus to see if theres any visible difference in them.

 

[bwarren228]

Well the ecu won't visibly be different. It will just be programmed differently. But I can check trans. mounts, lines, etc to see what it would involve. One things for sure, I won't use a stock clutch if I go through with it.

 

[NissanPowerBaby!!!]

So far I agree with Wolf and Nizmut...the master cylinder serves as the reservoir for the brakes and the clutch. One thing I noticed about this clutch/cylinder system is its poor performance in cold weather. I don't know if you're exposed to much cold weather where you live but I know with my truck when it gets around -15 the clutch takes forever to loosen up, and will actually stiffen as I drive. I don't know if this has to do with the actual clutch mechanism (release springs or the clutch itself), or more likely the reservoir system itself. You might want to take this into account when you decide on the master cylinder setup you choose, or a completely separate reservoir for the clutch.

 

[NISM0]

Did you ever consider a donor truck swap? You could get something like this super cheap.

2008 Nissan Frontier Salvage Vehicle Title near , TX 79501

Sell all the good parts, and see what happens.

 

[wolfman437]

I know something in my clutch area is starting to squeek, but thats just because its been doused with muddy water so much.

As far as the cold giving issues with the clutch, ive never had the problem. However im in nothern california so it doesnt get close to that temperature.

 

[bwarren228]

I'm in south Mississippi, so the truck sees mostly 90*+ weather, and occasionally a 30* day during a cold winter!

 

[NissanPowerBaby!!!]

Haha okay...I don't think you'll run into that issue then.

 

[severm]

It's been a long time since I messed around with a manual tranny and I don't know how they are making them, but, wouldn't you also need to replace the flywheel? I would think the clutch plate needs a different assembly in order to be mounted.

 

[TwoBills]

Don't forget the pilot bearing.

 

[AndysLog]

be glad that your trying this with 2005.

90% sure on new engine harness
and new ecu, you swap it without and i think the truck will stop you from revving high rpms. i know someone that did this and couldnt go past 3grand because of electrical issues.

 

[00 FRONTIER]

Did you ever consider a donor truck swap? You could get something like this super cheap.

2008 Nissan Frontier Salvage Vehicle Title near , TX 79501

Sell all the good parts, and see what happens.

What a waste, strip all the parts out of a perfectly good rebuilder :laugh:

It almost made it to 100k, wonder if it has the timing chain whine?

This is a good thread. Correct me if I am wrong but you could/cannot get a CC Nismo / Pro4x with a 6 speed? I believe you can in a KC.

 

[bwarren228]

You can't get a 2wd Nismo in a 6spd at all, and the CC Nismo doesnt come in a 6spd w/ a 4wd or 2wd. The only way to get a 6spd CC is in an SE.

 

[nizmut]

I forgot you had a nismo, then make sure you get the clutch safety bypass switch. You will probably need keys, chipped to the new ecu.
I have heard of some guys taking the whole steering column, harnesses, and ecus out of exploders to swap engine & tranny combos.