Should I attempt Auto to Manual swap?

[Shaff Weezy]

Hi guys, one of my first posts here since I don't yet have an e30. I found an '86 325e locally for $500 with little rust and in OK shape; only problem is that it is an auto. No matter what car I get I intend on doing an extensive amount of work to create a solid car. Being that I have no experience with these cars and little mechanical experience (though I intend to learn), do you think that an auto to manual swap would be too big of a project to take on at first? I've seen all the write-ups on how to do it, but wanted to get some feedback from you guys on how difficult it would be for a novice and if you think I should just wait until a manual comes around. Thanks for your help.

[absolutdog]

The manual swap isn't impossible for a novice, but you will get very frustrated, I would say go for it but make sure you have a second car as it will end up taking you 3 times as long as you plan for... but don't start with an e car wait for an i or is even

[sayed ali]

It's not a big deal, just replacing parts, no special abilities required ..

[cbouchez]

The manual swap isn't impossible for a novice, but you will get very frustrated, I would say go for it but make sure you have a second car as it will end up taking you 3 times as long as you plan for... but don't start with an e car wait for an i or is even

^^ He is right... I do not have the tools or the time to do it, so I decided to take her to a shop.

[DooDanE30]

^^ He is right... I do not have the tools or the time to do it, so I decided to take her to a shop.

how much did they charge you if you dont mind us knowing?

[P.Kelly]

$700 in Sacramento

[919e30]

$700 in Sacramento

$700 just labor/shop materials?

[P.Kelly]

$700 just labor/shop materials?

Yeah, I was quoted that price for labor for the complete swap minus the cruise control wiring. Price was based upon driving the E30 in and having all spare parts pulled and delivered to the shop at the same time.