electronics of automatic transmission?

[BonesDT]

OK, I'm researching how to deal with the computer after my 5r55e auto transmission swap to the 5 speed manual. is anyone a pro on how the PCM works with the auto trans? i'm guessing i dont have to worry about the PCM sending info to the trans, but i'm worried about engine changes especially the spark retarding that occurs right before a shift and the idle speeds.

for starters, will the engine start and run if all the auto trans. wire harnesses are disconnected? i'm thinking about starting by disconnecting the trans from the wire harness and then tapping into the solenoids and manually activate the solenoids from the drivers seat while i drive, sort of like a tiptronic. doesn't an automatic transmission shift on its own without external electronics anyway???

any ideas or knowledge, anything will help?

 

[Alec]

I think you need to basically get rid of the tranny programming from the PCM. Dunno if a chip like Apten can do it. I've heard many people get the PCM from a manual.

But of course, I haven't done this personally.

 

[rydinhigh]

Your best bet would to be getting a new pcm that was designed to work with the manual tranny.

 

[BonesDT]

well i have 3 issues with getting a new PCM:

1. The manual transmission was not offered for the SOHC until 2001. I have concerns about swapping in a 2001 computer into my 1999. Plus, I went to 3 Ford dealerships to ask them about it and they don't know anything. They've never even heard of a manual for an Explorer no less the new R1HD for the SOHC. No less did they know anything about getting me a new computer from any truck.

2. I would like to be able to easily convert back to an automatic if and when the time comes.

3. I like my computer. Everything has worked perfectly for 65,000 miles and 4 years. I rather not fix what's not broken.

All the other auto-manual swaps I've seen on this site, have been done with the OHV and there is no problem finding a computer.

I just emailed Apten. My hopes are up! I feel this is the most ideal solution, a removable chip that I can bolt onto the PCM that conforms with the manual transmission. In addition, I will be getting Apten's excellent performance gains!

If all else fails, is it possible for shops to burn my computer? I am also an electrical engineer. Is there some sort of circuit I can design to attach to the old automatic wiring harness to send signals to the PCM, "tricking" it? I am a determined do-it-yourselfer, but I have gotten to the point where I wouldn't mind a professional doing my computer.