Change to stick from auto for 1979
08-06-2009, 05:42 AM
#1
Pro
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Change to stick from auto for 1979
Can't find a 4 speed car, but have line on very nice automatic. Want to change to stick. Are there available kits to do the complete change to stick. Looks like the t-45's are available but don't know if they fit the 79. Imput would be appreciated
08-06-2009, 06:46 AM
#2
Safety Car
Several companies offer complete kits to convert to 5-6 speeds (Kessler and Classic). Having an automatic frame you'll appreciate later (like when you need to change the clutch) /:\
08-06-2009, 08:50 AM
#3
Team Owner
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My advice is to keep looking until you find a 4 speed car or learn to live with the automatic. The swap you want to make is expensive.
08-06-2009, 10:43 AM
#4
Racer
I used a kit from Kessler to change my '81 from an automatic to a 5 speed manual. You will need some technical know how to do this yourself. FYI, I had to get a new\different starter motor also(one that was for the manual '81 car) that wasn't in the kit. Also, make sure your halfshaft u-joints are in good condition. I don't know about the '79 model year, but in '81, the stock manual vettes had larger u-joints on the halfshafts... I just blew one of them out and caused a lot of damage to other parts.
08-06-2009, 11:55 AM
#5
Safety Car
The T45 deal seems to be a very nice priced set up.I have a complete muncie set up w/the pedals,etc.You are not going to like it nowhere near a 5,or 6 speed,but alot cheaper,and you still get the stick.
08-06-2009, 02:43 PM
#6
Burning Brakes
I went through this myself and ended up not doing it,,, All the parts are available but it gets expensive,, best senerio is finding a doner car,, I gave up,, non around where I live and did not want to travel. You should look into the offer stated above,, it may just be perfect.
08-06-2009, 02:46 PM
#7
This is the best way to go for local cruising and running around
08-06-2009, 03:28 PM
#9
Melting Slicks
Unless it's a car with sentimental value, I'd just sell it and buy a 4 speed car.
08-06-2009, 11:15 PM
#10
Heel & Toe
I just finished the stick from auto conversion in my '79.
I went with all the good stuff: M22 "rockcrusher" AutoGear Muncie,
Alum. flywheel, Centerforce Dual friction clutch, Lakewood Bellhousing, Hurst shifter. You can get all your clutch linkage, pedals etc. as a
kit from a couple different places, included is a bracket you'll have to
weld onto the frame for the "Z" bar. You also have to remove the steering column & Speed-o/Tach gauges. Have to cut the floor out at shifter location. I've basically just given you part of the overall job.
In my opinion, it's not a job for just just anyone to tackle & I got a
few more gray hairs by the time I got mime finished.....but there is
nothing like going thru the gears.....it was worth it all.
I went with all the good stuff: M22 "rockcrusher" AutoGear Muncie,
Alum. flywheel, Centerforce Dual friction clutch, Lakewood Bellhousing, Hurst shifter. You can get all your clutch linkage, pedals etc. as a
kit from a couple different places, included is a bracket you'll have to
weld onto the frame for the "Z" bar. You also have to remove the steering column & Speed-o/Tach gauges. Have to cut the floor out at shifter location. I've basically just given you part of the overall job.
In my opinion, it's not a job for just just anyone to tackle & I got a
few more gray hairs by the time I got mime finished.....but there is
nothing like going thru the gears.....it was worth it all.
