Hey guys. I am converting my 1992 Dakota 4x4 from an automatic transmission to a manual transmission. I have one question. Will the engine computer I have work on this swap? I am just wondering because I currently have an automatic transmission.

 

It will toss CELs due to the transmission not responding to OD and lockup.

I'd hunt up a manual computer if I were you.

Worst case ... Cardones at RockAuto are about $150 for the V6, OOS for the V8.

RwP

 

Ahhh. Will those codes turn the check engine light on? If not, I'm not gonna worry about it until I get the money to do a V8 swap.

 

One other thing. What driveshafts will I need? I know the front one is getting replaced. I just need to know how long the rear driveshaft will need to be.

 

Find a 4x4 donor of the same wheelbase and use its drive shafts and transmission. Shucks, that'll give you a used ECU also!

Problem solved.

RwP

 

Ahhh. That's a good point. If I can find a whole truck, I might get it especially if it has the V8. Does the neutral safety switch on the automatics wire into the engine harness?

 

Maybe this is unhelpful but I'll just voice my experience. I did a 1994 Dakota V8 swap into my manual transmission 1993 V6. I'm running the V8 automatic PCM and harness. So it should be pretty similar to the end results of your swap (auto computer, V8, manual tranny) I do not have a check engine light. I do have an intermittent "Maint Required" light, which to my knowledge will not prevent passing emissions.

Only practical problem is idle drops when I shift to neutral or come to a stop with the clutch in. Occasionally it stalls. I'm guessing it's related to the auto PCM but idk.

 

If it's the same as my '94 auto PCM then it's a 3 wire switch and all you gotta do is ground the orange wire and let the other wires hang free. Could be wrong on the color. And yes the wiring comes out of the engine bay harness.

 

It was helpful, actually. Do any of y'all know how the clutch master cylinder goes in? Is it bolted in or no?

 

I read somewhere that grounding that wire will disable the cruise control. Is there anyway to prevent that?