Acura CL Manual Conversion

The Acura CL manual conversion involves transforming an automatic transmission Acura CL into a manual transmission vehicle. This comprehensive process includes sourcing manual transmission components, modifying the drivetrain, installing clutch systems, and updating electronic controls. Below are key sections covering planning, components, installation steps, wiring modifications, and testing procedures.

Conversion Overview

Key aspects: Manual transmission swap, clutch installation, pedal assembly, ECU programming, and drivetrain modifications.

Component	Description
Manual Transmission	5-speed or 6-speed transmission from compatible Acura models
Clutch Assembly	Complete clutch kit including pressure plate and disc
Flywheel	Manual transmission compatible flywheel
Pedal Assembly	Manual clutch and brake pedal set
Master Cylinder	Clutch master cylinder and hydraulic lines
Slave Cylinder	Clutch slave cylinder for actuation
Shifter Assembly	Complete shifter mechanism and linkages
ECU	Manual transmission compatible ECU or reprogramming
Driveshaft	Modified or replacement driveshaft
Mounts	Transmission mounts and brackets

Required Components

Essential parts needed for complete manual conversion.

1. Manual transmission assembly with bellhousing
2. Complete clutch kit (pressure plate, disc, throwout bearing)
3. Flywheel and mounting bolts
4. Clutch master and slave cylinders with hydraulic lines
5. Manual transmission pedal assembly
6. Shifter assembly with cables or linkages
7. Manual transmission compatible ECU
8. Modified driveshaft or compatible manual version
9. Transmission mounts and crossmember
10. Speed sensor and vehicle speed pulse generator

WARNING! Ensure all components are compatible with your specific Acura CL model year and engine type.

Tools and Equipment

Specialized tools required for proper installation.

1. Transmission jack and engine support bar
2. Complete socket set and wrenches
3. Clutch alignment tool
4. Bleeding kit for hydraulic systems
5. Torque wrench for precise bolt tightening
6. Pry bars and transmission input shaft tool
7. Electrical multimeter and wiring tools
8. ECU programming software and interface
9. Hydraulic line flaring tools if custom lines needed

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

Transmission Removal

• Preparation: Disconnect battery, drain transmission fluid.
• Disconnection: Remove driveshaft, exhaust components, shift linkage.
• Electrical: Disconnect sensors, speedometer cable, reverse light switch.
• Support: Secure engine with support bar.
• Removal: Remove transmission crossmember, lower transmission with jack.
• Torque Converter: Remove torque converter bolts before transmission separation.
• Final Removal: Carefully lower transmission from vehicle.

Manual Transmission Installation

Step-by-step installation of manual transmission components.

Preparation: Clean bellhousing surface, inspect pilot bearing.

Clutch Installation: Use alignment tool for proper disc positioning. Torque pressure plate bolts in star pattern.

Transmission Mounting: Apply grease to input shaft splines. Carefully guide transmission into position.

Mounting: Install transmission mounts and crossmember. Torque all bolts to specification.

Final Connections: Install starter motor, connect all electrical sensors.

Clutch System Setup

Hydraulic clutch system installation and bleeding.

1. Install clutch pedal assembly in footwell
2. Mount master cylinder to firewall with proper clearance
3. Route hydraulic line to slave cylinder
4. Install slave cylinder on transmission bellhousing
5. Bleed hydraulic system completely
6. Adjust clutch pedal free play

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

Pedal Assembly Modification

Manual pedal cluster installation and adjustments.

1. Remove automatic transmission brake pedal
2. Install manual brake and clutch pedal assembly
3. Connect clutch master cylinder pushrod
4. Adjust pedal height and free play
5. Install clutch safety switch for starting interlock
6. Test pedal operation and clearance

WARNING! Ensure proper pedal clearance and smooth operation before final assembly.

Wiring and ECU Updates

Electrical modifications for manual transmission operation.

Neutral Safety Switch: Bypass or modify for manual transmission starting

Reverse Lights: Connect manual transmission reverse switch

Speed Sensor: Ensure proper speedometer operation

ECU Programming: Reprogram for manual transmission or install manual ECU

Check Engine Light: Address any transmission-related error codes

Driveshaft and Axle Modifications

Drivetrain modifications for manual transmission compatibility.

CAUTION! Proper driveshaft length and balance are critical for vibration-free operation.

Testing and Calibration

Final testing procedures and system calibration.

Initial Start: Check for unusual noises, verify clutch operation

Gear Engagement: Test all gears including reverse

Clutch Adjustment: Fine-tune pedal free play and engagement point

Road Test: Test acceleration, shifting, and deceleration

Final Inspection: Check for leaks, verify all electrical functions

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard shifting	Clutch not disengaging fully	Bleed hydraulic system, adjust pedal free play
Gear grind	Synchro wear or fluid issue	Check transmission fluid, inspect synchros
Clutch slip	Worn clutch or improper adjustment	Adjust clutch, inspect for wear
Vibration	Driveshaft imbalance or angle	Check driveshaft balance and U-joints
No start	Clutch safety switch issue	Check switch wiring and adjustment

Professional Assistance: Complex electrical or mechanical issues may require professional mechanic.

Resources: Acura technical service bulletins and conversion specialists.