Hello out there. I have two 1993 dakotas, one 4wd with auto tranny (not shifting right) and a 93 Dakota 2 wd 5spd manual.I can get a 4wd manual trans and have the donor truck for all parts needed.My question is are their going to be any issues with the electronics ie the computer.Manual transmissions are so reliable and I would hate to fiddle with the auto just to eventualy have to get a rebuilt one.Also any hints or tips of trouble spots during the coversion woukld be appreciated. Thanks for reading.

 

You'll probably get a check engine light, but it should still function properly to swap to a manual. The best thing to do though would be to get the computer out of a manual.

 

I would think hanging a clutch pedal and installing a clutch master cylinder and installing the lines might be some challange. Maybe I am wrong! Is there a hookup under the dash to hang the pedal or do you have to create something? Again i don't know but would check it all out first. Then there is the shifter I guess just cut the floor out????? Then what about the colum automatic shift arm do you cut it off? The position it needs to be in, Park, to be able to turn the key, how do you deal with that??? i am just rambeling here but just want to bring all the little things to your attention.....

 

Thanks for the replies.There would be a lots of time put into this project.In the long run mabey less time than playing around with the auto trany.I dont know.I do have a colum from my donor truck (manual) to swap in.Still kicking around the idea though.I am still going to change fluids and check cable adjustments sensor operation, possibly clean the valve body to see if I can get the auto trany to perform correctly before I decide.

 

also check your torque convertor clutch solenoid because that will cause it to shift irregularily. does it stall when you stop too fast? also check computer connections and have the tranny serviced(new fluid and filter) these different assortment of quick fixes might just permantly fix it.

 

It does not stall with rabbit stops.It does however shift very quickly from 1st to 2nd gear, then holds 2nd till high rpm is reached and If I let of on the throttle (RPM's drop) and give the throttle a slight bump it will catch and shift to third.Then overdrive.I also noticed it hesitated shifting to revesre one morning.