[BigBodyM3]

After much reading, research, and PMing other members, I have found this has been done and possible. Yet there are several speed bumps in the road.

Basically the swap is very semi-simple, BUT what I discovered is that the SMG transmission (solely) is the same as the 6MT EXCEPT there are no spring detents that allow for the stick to return to a natural center position or the added tension to go into reverse. So if you install a manual shifter into an SMG transmission it will shift, but when in neutral it will be to one side etc. I was told it takes a little machining to add the springs.

Mechanically:
Total costs in parts look to be about $400, install some parts into the Trans, then you have a perfect 6spd, and then it all just bolts in. The sucky part is the transmission has to be dropped to gain access to these springs or the project sounds 8 hours shorter.

Software/Wiring:
I read there is a combination of fuses to remove and wire to hack to add the failsafe clutch start. but then lots of error lights will be on the dash, but should be startable and drivable.

To be complete the car's ECU re-coded as a 6spd etc. I have been blessed to start a local forum, floridagerman, and met some great guys here willing to assist. Several sponsors now friends that own shops and good friend that is a tech at a local bmw.

Here is where I need some help:
I am familiar in dropping the tranny on my 01 like 4+ times but I hear the SMG is a bit different having the hydro unit, can someone clarify?

I have access to a 98 M3 for parts, does anyone know if any of these parts are useable?

slave cylinder
master cylinder
clutch pedal assembly


Thanks so much in advance to anyone that can offer some help. I know there are some people that have heard this is impossible and discouraged me but have met some on other forums that have done this. I guess it is not so strange for guys with 3.0 Z4s and 330cis.

Thanks again,
Dave

[marioalex24]

Wow that would be pretty cool to see if it can be done. Keep us posted to see if you did convert it. I would be interested to know.

[keca10]

If you can, please do a DIY when you do this. It would be fun to see how it's done.

[BigBodyM3]

More info to come. Waiting to continue with install and order additional parts until I confirm none from the 98 part car can be used.

[d0nkeyxpunch]

Goodluck with the project. Definately keep us updated. From what I hear, it is best to just buy a 6spd M3.

[ChasenIS]

Any updates?

[BigBodyM3]

Yes, I apreciate all of the PM recieved. I understand manys view on trade and repurchase but to be honest, my current credit state and how upsidedown I am and the fact it is not running is what impacts that decesion. My car is down right now with pump failure. The 2k in part alone gamble and my lack of love for SMG helped my choose this route. I have already tried the new relay and software flash and signs show pump it is. I have read the thread about the posible regulator only fix but again it is a shot in the dark too.

No replies yet on the part compatibility.

[BigBodyM3]

bump for the night guys

[Dra6on45]

How many miles do you have on the SMG that it failed?

[Exacc]

Consider also the drop in the resale value of your car...savings now but maybe more cost in the long run....also the gamble that by failing to convert it properly to a manual may even cost you more putting the SMG back in.

This is the kind of life we live, enjoying these cars...this is part of it. Sometimes you just have to bite the bullet and pay for the expensive part to get everything sorted out.

Anyway, not here to rain on your parade...good luck with the conversion. I would check out realoem.com to see the part questions you may have. I am doubtful that it will work...but maybe a part from any 6 cyl E46 coupe may work for you...but if your already looking for used parts, you may find a salvaged SMG M3 with the part you need! Good luck bro!