i have an 02 zx2 the transmission is slipping in 1st gear. How much of a hassle is it to swap to a manual? Is it worth it. I just want to put a manual zx2 transmission on the car.
Hopefully someone with a ZX2 will answer. I think some of our members have done it. My Escorts are all the 2nd gen LX kind, and with them, a trans swap would also involve some wiring changes, plus having the different shifting mechanicals (which may require having a donor car to take those parts from). And if you live where they have emissions testing, that may complicate your life, depending on how the local jurisdiction views changes. With mine, the CEL light would come on if the trans control module didnt see results from the automatic transmission when the module would call for gear changes. That CEL coming on is an automatic 'fail' where I live in Virginia. Also the switch to turn on the back-up lights is located on the top of the automatic transmission, and is very different from the switch on a 5-speed that turns on the back-up lights. That same switch on the auto trans is the one that prevents that starter from working unless the shifter is in Neutral or Park. This function doesnt exist on the 5-speed. Where I live in TX, the inspector doesnt care if the back-up lights come on in reverse, but they sure do care where we live in Virginia.
I wish someone with a zx2 would reply too. I am not worried about wiring but I have heard that there is a spacer plate that is needed and I want to make sure the bolt pattern is the same.
this is an easy swap to do an can be done in one day if you have the skills. Expect at least 2 days though. Day one for removal of auto parts, day 2 for install of mtx parts. The main things you will need which people always overlook are: - the crank sensor housing for the mtx - the wiring ends for the connectors leading from the trans used when replacing the atx wiring ends - the correct mtx ecu for the application. 98-99 for 98-99 car and 99-03 for 99-03 car - the motor mount for the top of the trans. This has a provision to hold the clutch hose I have done this swap for many members, for myself and for many cars i have sold. If i have any auto cars i get with bad trans i just do the swap as it is less time and money to do the swap than it is to rebuild the auto trans