converting auto 323i to manual

effdbmx1 · #1 (**permalink**) 01-19-2009, 12:43 PM

the reverse in my dad's 323i wagon failed and my dad was going to fix it but then i told him he should convert to manual and he likes the idea. he can do all the work. my question is, what would need to be replaced? i know the obvious parts but my main question is will the computer or ECU or whatever need to be replaced too? my dad's done manual conversions before but on older cars so he doesn't really know much about the computers and stuff. please let me know. and if it doesn't need to be replaced, how much would one cost?

polizei144 · #2 (**permalink**) 01-23-2009, 06:27 PM

i'm really interested to know how this works/turns out. keep us posted!

sprintman · #3 (**permalink**) 02-04-2009, 03:18 AM

Check the forums like E46fanatics.com for those who have done it. It's a horrendous job and very expensive and they all say 'never again' Sell it and buy a manual.

polizei144 · #4 (**permalink**) 02-04-2009, 07:19 PM

yeah, i don't doubt that it's a headache. i'm not brave enough to attempt it myself.

seventyfive · #5 (**permalink**) 02-06-2009, 04:38 PM

it would be pretty pricey to swap it to a manual.
we have a customer with the a blown reverse zf box. trying to find a used auto box is hard, you'd be better off getting a remanned auto from bmw, the last time i checked they are $4200 with a 2 year warranty.