I've searched the automatic transmission threads, and I have to agree that it's sorta lame to want an auto in a hi-perf car, but going for a late 'Vette engine/trans combo with the paddle-shift six-speed would be a different story, I'd think. I agree the wide trans pan would cause exhaust clearance, but with shielding and some judicious clearance enhancing that might still be doable. Then there are the cooling lines and heat exchanger, etc.

It's bulkier, and it has plumbing and cooling needs that sticks don't have that would crank up the degree of difficulty of the conversion, but still, a six-speed paddle-shift box would help mitigate the traffic issues with a daily driver. And the ones I've driven could hardly be said to suffer in the performance department. I get all itchy thinking about zipping through my favorite mountain roads, snicking through the gears with my clutch foot planted firmly on the dead pedal. But I also get that way thinking about rowing a stick trans through the same terrain...

Your thoughts?


Thanks much,

Lynn B.

 

Anything is doable with a big enough hammer! ;-)
CVX_20 has an auto in his Ford conversion. A bear to work the exhaust around it, but it works well.
Jack

 

Go for it. Especially if it's a daily driver with occasional track or autocross. The extra weight is a factor, probably not so much compared to a T56, and the bulk is also, but it's do-able. I have a 4R70W in mine, which is electronically controlled, so it can be shifted with a set of pushbuttons or paddles, I just haven't seen the need.

The auto makes the cupholders almost usable.

Mike

 

I can't personally verify, but I've read that the auto Miatas have a wider trans tunnel. May be worth investigating if you're shopping for a conversion candidate.

 

Wow, that in itself makes the auto trans a must-have!

And I'll inquire further about the auto-equipped cars' trans tunnel width.


Thanks, y'all!

Lynn B.

 

Just make sure the shifting doesnt go through the bcm or something crazy to not make it work.