Manual Conversion for C43 AMG.

[C43 holla]

From reading all the post about the manual conversion for our AMG's I've started thinking and have a few questions. I have access for free a brand new transmission / gearbox for a 5 spd 1986 E300. Will this fit in my C43? I obviously would get a better clutch. If anyone could answer this question for me that would be greatly appreciated.

[benzaddict]

It won't bolt up easy if that's what you're asking. A custom bellhousing adapter would have to be made to fit the newer style M112, M113 engine bellhousing shape, it is different from any bellhousing shape MB has made in the past. Then you'll need to space the flywheel and figure out input shaft to pilot bearing clearances......ouch, makes my head hurt thinking about it.

If you guys are serious about swapping a manual into a C43 or any M112/M113 car it's going to cost serious coin. Without question the new 6-spd from the C320 sport would bolt up but the question is can it handle the torque. Then you're going to have to sort out the shifter linkage and driveshaft length, which I have no doubt can be done. Any other trans will be a hassle as a custom bellhousing will need to be made. I spent a lot of time researching putting a 6-speed into my CLK320, which is the exact same set-up as a C43, and I found it to be more than I'm willing to spend. My suggestion would be to fit the 6-speed and see what happens with reliability. I honestly think that it would be fine with a stock C43, but a supercharged C43 might be a whole different story.

That said, if any of you are serious, I live in Seattle and I'm an MB Certified Master tech and would willing to try and make it work, just get your car here with a pile of cash and parts.

[coolcarlskic43]

Originally posted by benzaddict
It won't bolt up easy if that's what you're asking. A custom bellhousing adapter would have to be made to fit the newer style M112, M113 engine bellhousing shape, it is different from any bellhousing shape MB has made in the past. Then you'll need to space the flywheel and figure out input shaft to pilot bearing clearances......ouch, makes my head hurt thinking about it.

If you guys are serious about swapping a manual into a C43 or any M112/M113 car it's going to cost serious coin. Without question the new 6-spd from the C320 sport would bolt up but the question is can it handle the torque. Then you're going to have to sort out the shifter linkage and driveshaft length, which I have no doubt can be done. Any other trans will be a hassle as a custom bellhousing will need to be made. I spent a lot of time researching putting a 6-speed into my CLK320, which is the exact same set-up as a C43, and I found it to be more than I'm willing to spend. My suggestion would be to fit the 6-speed and see what happens with reliability. I honestly think that it would be fine with a stock C43, but a supercharged C43 might be a whole different story.

That said, if any of you are serious, I live in Seattle and I'm an MB Certified Master tech and would willing to try and make it work, just get your car here with a pile of cash and parts. I like your last paragaph!LOL. can that tranny really wrk in the c43? I'm putting a E55 motor in my C43 next week!

[98c43amg]

Originally posted by coolcarlskic43
I like your last paragaph!LOL.

coolcarlskic43,

hehe, Me too.

Hey, if it'll be cheaper to do two then one, I'll go for it with you @ the same time.

If your friend who installed the 5.5L engine in your C43 isn't the ideal guy due to the customization aspect of this mod, perhaps the shop I'll be having the LSD and speedybenz suspension installed @ in Huntington [RPM Racing] can be ... I'll ask.

...if all the custom parts are needed, how 'bout then just forget an MB trani and put in a ZF 6-speed from an M3? I figure they're getting totalled more and sooner (with less miles) then an MB anyway. :p

[Denlasoul]

Originally posted by benzaddict
That said, if any of you are serious, I live in Seattle and I'm an MB Certified Master tech and would willing to try and make it work, just get your car here with a pile of cash and parts.
Oh boy, am I going to be in alot of trouble!!! :D