I own a 1991 dodge shadow es convertible non turbo 4cyl and i want to switch it over to a 5 speed manual. My friend has a transmission he took out of his 1992 dodge shadow es convertible and i would just like to know if i can swap this one with my 1991 automatic trans and if so what else would i need beside simply the trans? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks alot!

I wish I could offer you some useful information. Unfortunately, I have not delved into my Shadow to that extent. Personally, I would leave well enough alone. The manual transmission used in these cars really doesn't provide any improvement in performance over an automatic. And the manual always requires more work on your part while you are driving. But it is your car and the final choice is yours.

I wish I could offer you some useful information. Unfortunately, I have not delved into my Shadow to that extent. Personally, I would leave well enough alone. The manual transmission used in these cars really doesn't provide any improvement in performance over an automatic. And the manual always requires more work on your part while you are driving. But it is your car and the final choice is yours.

Yeah i see what you are saying but its not really a performance issue but more of a matter of taste. I enjoy driving a manual, i especially find it fun when i go for a drive down one of the many long, winding beuatiful roads out here in rural PA. I plan on keeping this car for a while and since it has relatively high miles already(119,000) id rather install a manual due to the more durable nature of the manual trans.

Well, it sounds like your transmission conversion will be a productive undertaking. Things you should look at are the interchangability of the axle half-shafts between manual and automatic and the ability to install a throw-out bearing on the end of your crankshaft. But then again, if you have a complete donor car, parts shouldn't be an issue. Be sure to document your progress here so others can learn from your experience.

By the way, I wouldn't consider 119,000 miles as "high mileage" for these cars, as long as you have maintained them properly. I bought my Shadow back in 1993 with only 12,000 miles on the odometer. I have changed the oil and filter every 3,000 to 4,000 miles over the years. Two weeks ago, at 116,000 miles, I pulled the head for a valve job. The cylinder walls looked brand new, no ridging at all. I am sure these engines are good for over 200,000 with reasonable care.