Who here has done an automatic to manual transmission swap on a 3rd gen 4runner with the 3.4 v6?

How difficult is it? Does the ECU need to be swapped as well?

 

You will need a new xfer case, and the whole master slave, new lines and clutch pedal assembly. You'll have to cut out the floorboards but I doubt that would be difficult. I think I've read somewhere also that the computer will need upgraded or at least tricked into thinking the truck is always in neutral...this is more of a holiday bump for ya than useful info.

 

i just did this on my 1st gen, i dont know what all the differences are but it was pretty easy on my truck, the ECU's were the same between auto and manual on the early runners. maybe its the same for yours. just make sure to get all the parts you need before hand, it really sucks when your makin good progress only to be stopped by not having a throw out bearing to clutch fork clip.

 

Sell the auto 4Runner and pick up a Manual for less. I really doubt it's worth the trouble.

 

agreed. it's not even worth it.

 

Too bad you're not close, I wouldn't mind going the other way, I've got a 5spd and lately in traffic I would like an auto.

 

Pretend like you have a manual by using your left foot and shifting the auto tranny through the gears. Don't forget to make the "vroom vroom" sounds.

 

You've a solution for me too?

 

Just leave off the "vroom vroom" sounds.

 

The 4runner is not quite like my old mustang: you could take off in 3rd, and get up to 65mph in the same gear. The clutch especially appreciates that!

 

Just cause you have 5 gears doesn't mean you have to use them all. It's fairly common for me to 1-3-5 or 1-2-4-5. Don't want to wear those gears out!

 

That's right, and when you don't have to go too far, you can also drive in reverse once in while to save the other gears! People in the drive through get a little confused when your passenger is ordering though.

 

sounds like the truck i drive at work every now and then -- mid 70s chevy flatbed with a built 383 stroker and SM465 4 speed(really a 3 speed unless you're towing something heavy, then it becomes a 4 speed)

with the engine hot, 4th gear is good for cruising at 30mph all the way to its top speed...which i haven't figured out yet. ahh, the joys of having 400lbs of torque

 

I use that technique on the '95 all the time. If I have to use a calendar to measure 0-60, what's another week?