2004 Acura TL Automatic to Manual Conversion

The 2004 Acura TL automatic to manual conversion involves replacing the factory automatic transmission with a manual transmission system. This comprehensive guide covers the process, required parts, tools, installation steps, wiring modifications, and post-conversion considerations for converting your 2004 Acura TL from automatic to manual transmission.

Conversion Overview

The automatic to manual conversion transforms your 2004 Acura TL into a manual transmission vehicle, requiring replacement of transmission, clutch system, pedal assembly, and ECU modifications.

Required Parts List

Essential components needed for complete conversion.

1. Manual Transmission: J32A2 compatible 5-speed manual transmission
2. Clutch Kit: Complete clutch assembly with pressure plate and disc
3. Flywheel: Manual transmission specific flywheel
4. Pedal Assembly: Complete clutch and brake pedal set
5. Shift Assembly: Shifter, cables, and linkage components
6. Hydraulic Components: Master cylinder, slave cylinder, and hydraulic lines
7. ECU: Manual transmission compatible ECU or conversion kit
8. Drive Shaft: Manual transmission specific drive shaft
9. Mounts: Transmission mounts and support brackets
10. Wiring Harness: Modified or replacement wiring harness

WARNING! Ensure all parts are compatible with 2004 Acura TL J32A2 engine.

Tools and Equipment

Professional tools required for proper installation.

1. Transmission jack and engine support bar
2. Complete socket set (metric 8mm-22mm)
3. Torque wrench (capable of 100-200 ft-lbs)
4. Clutch alignment tool
5. Bleeding kit for hydraulic system
6. Electrical multimeter and wiring tools
7. Hydraulic line flaring tools
8. Transmission fluid pump

CAUTION! Use proper safety equipment including jack stands and protective gear.

Transmission Removal

• Preparation: Disconnect battery, drain transmission fluid.
• Disconnection: Remove drive shafts, shift linkage, electrical connectors.
• Support: Secure engine with support bar.
• Removal: Remove transmission mounts, bell housing bolts.
• Extraction: Carefully lower transmission using jack.
• Inspection: Check engine rear main seal and mounting surfaces.
• Cleaning: Clean transmission mating surface thoroughly.

Manual Transmission Installation

Install manual transmission following reverse removal procedure.

Steps: Install clutch assembly using alignment tool, mount flywheel with proper torque sequence, install manual transmission, connect drive shafts and linkage, install transmission mounts, fill with proper manual transmission fluid.

Torque Specifications: Flywheel bolts: 76 ft-lbs, Pressure plate bolts: 19 ft-lbs, Transmission bolts: 47 ft-lbs, Drive shaft nuts: 36 ft-lbs.

Clutch System Installation

Complete hydraulic clutch system installation.

1. Install clutch master cylinder in engine bay
2. Route hydraulic lines to transmission
3. Install slave cylinder on transmission
4. Bleed hydraulic system completely
5. Adjust clutch pedal free play
6. Test clutch engagement and disengagement

Tip: Bench bleed master cylinder before installation for easier system bleeding.

Wiring and ECU Modifications

Essential electrical modifications for manual conversion.

1. Install manual transmission compatible ECU
2. Modify wiring harness for reverse lights
3. Connect clutch pedal position switch
4. Program ECU for manual transmission operation
5. Disable automatic transmission error codes
6. Test all electrical functions including reverse lights
7. Verify speedometer and tachometer operation

WARNING! Proper ECU programming is critical for engine operation and emissions compliance.

Pedal Assembly Installation

Manual pedal assembly installation procedure.

Testing and Calibration

Post-installation testing and system calibration.

Common Issues and Solutions

Reset: Clear ECU codes after conversion completion.

Service: Consult professional Acura specialists for complex issues.