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2nd gen. 6spd. swap discussion thread

3724 Views 17 Replies 9 Participants Last post by  nizmut
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.
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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.
Haha okay...I don't think you'll run into that issue then.
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