Acura Legend Manual Transmission Swap

The Acura Legend manual transmission swap involves replacing the original automatic transmission with a manual gearbox for improved performance and driving experience. This comprehensive guide covers the process, required parts, tools, installation steps, and considerations for successfully completing the swap on Acura Legend models. Below are key sections for preparation, parts list, installation procedure, and troubleshooting.

1. Overview and Benefits 2. Required Parts and Tools 3. Pre-Installation Preparation 4. Transmission Removal 5. Manual Transmission Installation 6. Clutch System Setup 7. Hydraulic System Installation 8. Shifter and Linkage 9. Electrical Modifications 10. Testing and Calibration 11. Troubleshooting

Overview and Benefits

Key advantages of manual transmission swap: improved acceleration, better fuel efficiency, enhanced driver control, and increased reliability.

ComponentDescription
Manual Transmission5-speed or 6-speed gearbox from compatible Acura/Honda models
Clutch AssemblyComplete clutch kit including pressure plate, disc, and release bearing
FlywheelManual transmission compatible flywheel
Pedal AssemblyManual clutch pedal and brake pedal assembly
Master CylinderClutch hydraulic master cylinder
Slave CylinderClutch hydraulic slave cylinder
Shifter AssemblyComplete shifter mechanism and linkage
DriveshaftManual transmission compatible driveshaft
ECUManual transmission compatible ECU or wiring modifications
MountsManual transmission specific engine and transmission mounts

Required Parts and Tools

Essential components and equipment needed for successful transmission swap.

  1. Manual transmission (Type 2 or compatible)
  2. Complete clutch kit with pressure plate and disc
  3. Flywheel and flywheel bolts
  4. Clutch master and slave cylinders with lines
  5. Manual transmission pedal assembly
  6. Shifter assembly and linkage components
  7. Manual transmission compatible ECU
  8. Transmission fluid (Honda MTF)
  9. Basic hand tools, jack stands, transmission jack

WARNING! Use proper safety equipment and secure vehicle on jack stands before beginning work.

Pre-Installation Preparation

Proper preparation ensures smooth installation process.

  1. Disconnect battery and drain transmission fluid
  2. Remove exhaust system and heat shields
  3. Disconnect driveshaft and half shafts
  4. Remove shift linkage and cables
  5. Disconnect electrical connectors and sensors
  6. Support engine with proper support tool
  7. Remove transmission crossmember and mounts

CAUTION! Label all connectors and take photos for reference during reassembly.

Transmission Removal

Manual Transmission Installation

Installation of manual transmission and related components.

Procedure: Install flywheel with proper torque sequence, mount clutch assembly, align clutch disc, install transmission, connect driveshaft and half shafts.

Transmission: Ensure proper alignment with engine, install transmission mounts, connect shift linkage, fill with proper transmission fluid. Clutch: Adjust clutch pedal free play, bleed hydraulic system, test clutch operation.

Clutch System Setup

Proper clutch installation and adjustment critical for smooth operation.

  1. Install clutch disc and pressure plate with alignment tool
  2. Torque pressure plate bolts in star pattern
  3. Install release bearing and clutch fork
  4. Connect clutch hydraulic system
  5. Bleed clutch hydraulic system thoroughly
  6. Adjust clutch pedal height and free play

Tip: Use genuine Honda clutch components for best performance and longevity.

Hydraulic System Installation

Clutch master and slave cylinder installation procedure.

  1. Remove automatic transmission brake pedal assembly
  2. Install manual pedal assembly with clutch pedal
  3. Mount clutch master cylinder to firewall
  4. Install clutch fluid reservoir and lines
  5. Mount slave cylinder to transmission
  6. Connect hydraulic line between master and slave
  7. Bleed system until firm pedal achieved

WARNING! Ensure proper bleeding to prevent clutch engagement issues.

Shifter and Linkage

Manual shifter assembly installation and adjustment.

  1. Install shifter assembly to transmission
  2. Connect shift linkage rods and cables
  3. Adjust shift linkage for proper gear engagement
  4. Install shift boot and knob
  5. Test all gear positions for smooth operation
  6. Adjust reverse lockout mechanism if equipped

Electrical Modifications

Necessary wiring changes for manual transmission operation.

Neutral Safety Switch: Bypass or modify automatic transmission safety switch. Reverse Lights: Connect manual transmission reverse switch. ECU: Install manual transmission compatible ECU or modify existing ECU wiring. Speed Sensor: Ensure proper speed sensor connection and calibration.

Testing and Calibration

Final checks and road testing procedures.

Check all fluid levels, test clutch operation, verify gear engagement, test drive at low speeds first, check for unusual noises or vibrations, calibrate speedometer if necessary.

CAUTION! Perform initial testing in safe, controlled environment before normal driving.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Hard shiftingLinkage adjustmentAdjust shift linkage; check transmission fluid level
Clutch slippingHydraulic systemBleed clutch system; check master/slave cylinders
Gear grindingClutch adjustmentAdjust clutch pedal free play; check synchronizers
No reverse lightsWiringCheck reverse switch connection and wiring
VibrationDriveshaft alignmentCheck driveshaft angles; inspect mounts and U-joints

Reset: Clear ECU codes after installation completion.

Service: Consult Acura specialist for complex electrical issues.

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