Cost of switching to an automatic?

[viCe]

I have a 1987 325es with a 5speed. I was curious if anyone has ever done a 5speed => automatic transmission install. I live in a high traffic area and a 5speed does not suit my needs anymore.


How much does a used auto tranny go for? I can only assume there is a bunch of them since the 5speed is more sought after.

How much does installation cost? Is a tranny switch very hard/time consuming for a shop to do?

Should I try and get a rebuilt automatic tranny, or go with one that was pulled straight from the car(like off ebay).


TIA guys. :D

[T.Dot E30]

where are u located?

[Justin B]

Arent auto trannies a little larger diameter? Or is that just 2002's that I know of? I think it would be easier to switch from an auto to a 5 speed rather than the other way around. Get another e30 or deal with it? I see what you're getting at but it sounds like a pain in the ass to do. Then again ive never done it and only have minimal knowledge of putting a 5 speed where an auto was... :?

[Sean]

You'll also need the radiator from an auto car, because it cools the automatic tranny too.

[Bimmerfanatik]

Make a post in the WTB/FS section asking anyone who has an automatic relatively close to you who's willing to swap even. There's enough auto guys out there that would kill for a manual tranny, and since it'd only cost them their auto stuff, why not? You both win, no money is exchanged, and everyone goes away happy.

[erik325i]

Don't wast your time swapping to an automatic tranny. Just sell your e30 and buy one with an automatic.
Around me, the auto e30s are cheaper, and in better condition with less miles. That would probably be your best bet. After getting rid of your eta you could even get an "i". Just my opinion.

[nando]

I agree, there are too many little things like the tranny kick down, wiring, tranny coolers etc to mess with. it would probably be easier and cheaper to just get another car I think.

[Digitalwave]

I agree, there are too many little things like the tranny kick down, wiring, tranny coolers etc to mess with. it would probably be easier and cheaper to just get another car I think.

Yeah, save the trouble and buy an auto car. You need more parts to do the swap to auto than auto to manual. I am not sure but I don't think you could use the 5 speed ECU. You'd need the radiator.

[James Crivellone]

As everybody else said, it would be easier to just buy an auto.


However, here are the parts that you would need.


ZF Automatic Transmission
Automatic Flywheel (as you have an ETA you need an ETA one)
Torque Converter
Automatic Transmission Radiator (to replace your current radiator)
Auto Tranny cooling lines + brackets
Auto Tranny Cable feed that goes to your throttle
Automatic Driveshaft (date matched with transmission if you want this easy)
Don't need new pedals unless you want the wide brake pedal
Auto Tranny shifting assembly, which bolts right up where the stick is.
Don't need a new ECU
Some wiring for the reverse light, and P/N Starter engage

and finally, a chip, because auto eta's suck ass ;)