X5 E53 - swap from auto to maual

[glenc]

HI all

Researching the idea of swapping out the 5L40E tranny on the 2001 X5 3.0D that hasn't moved in 2 years now (prior posts about this debacle). Have seen on a couple of posts on other boards where people have done this. I know it's not an easy job - to aid me I do have friends who are mechanics and another who owns a machining shop.

I realise there are a number of things to consider:
- actual gearbox match (ratios, length, mounts etc.)
- need to fit pedal, clutch, reservoir and change cooling
- will need to reprogram the ECU

So a couple of questions

1. Has anyone here done this before?
2. Does anyone know a BMW fanatic in the KZN / Midlands area who could provide advice?

Am I being foolish? Probably. Will it work? Who knows! With the price of cars, it kills me that this beautiful car (when it runs!) wouldn't be worth more than 20K if I stripped it and sold the parts. It would be at least 20k to get her running on auto again but that's a 3 month warranty and that's it. At 28k for a new box, that's a shedload of money to fork out...

Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[RAArmstrong]

It can be done I think...

These cars did ship with a 5 speed manual. My E39 had one. Not sure about the complexities around the transfer case etc

E46 auto to manual swaps have been done. The tech in the E53 is very much the same so I think it can be done personally.

 

[SubLoaded]

My mech has done a few E46 conversions.

I've asked him about your scenario. He said to give him a call if you're interested and you guys can take it from there.

Let me know :thumbs:

 

[glenc]

My mech has done a few E46 conversions.

I've asked him about your scenario. He said to give him a call if you're interested and you guys can take it from there.

Let me know :thumbs:

Thank you SubLoaded! Definitely interested in chatting with him.

---

It can be done I think...

These cars did ship with a 5 speed manual. My E39 had one. Not sure about the complexities around the transfer case etc

E46 auto to manual swaps have been done. The tech in the E53 is very much the same so I think it can be done personally.

Thank you! Great news

 

[SubLoaded]

PM sent :thumbs:

 

[Solo Man]

Gizmo's done a few gearbox (auto to manual) swops on mostly E46's but give him a ring for info and help although he is in Alberton.