auto to manual conversion: 2000 RS
 

Hey guys i've been searching all over the place for a 2000/2001 2.5RS Sedan and have pretty much come up empty except for one car. Its absolutely what I'm looking for, but I'm not sure yet if its a manual or auto. Its cheap enough that I would have about $1000 bucks left over and I'm wondering if it would be realistic to do a conversion if it is in fact auto.

Does anyone in Reno or the very near vicinity have the know how to do this? I would love to provide the funds of course, and treat it as a learning experience. I have found a couple DIY threads on different forums, but would really like to work on this with someone with more know how than me.

If the conversion of an SVX from auto to manual is any guide, $1000 won't be enough for a nice conversion. I believe the cost of a decent gearbox, clutch/flywheel, master/slave cylinders, and pedal box will be more than that, never mind the cost of fabrication labor for anything you can't do yourself.

In the long run, its probably more economical to keep looking for one with a manual transmission. I remember talking to a few people a while ago about converting my 02 Legacy to manual, and it would have been expensive. I probably would have paid for someone else to do it rather than do it myself since that's a bit bigger than I'd want to bite off, but still it would be more than $1k.

Parts alone would be close to, or over $1k depending on if you can find good deals somewhere else. And, on top of the parts sperry has already mentioned, I believe my conversion would have also needed a new rear diff, driveline and half-shafts. I just decided against it and traded in for a manual 05 a few years later.

Yeah, once again, definitely do not buy a car that you're already planning on making major mechanical changes to. It's just not worth it.

Yes. Wait until you find exactly what you want. Or don't, and spend the next few years on this forum complaining about it.:lol:

FYP.

I know two people who could do this conversion for you. I think a used 01 RS transmission goes for about 1K though so it wouldn't be with in your price range. :(

Maybe expand your search. My last 3 cars were bought 70 miles, 200 miles, and 500 miles away from my house. :)

I am a perfect example of this. However, if your heart is REALLY set on it, I can help. I can probably kiss enough ass to get my hands on a lift for a day.

Haha alright so good news... Found one! 5 speed and all :)