TRANSMISSION CONVERSIONS
Transmission
Conversion Specialists
Thinking about converting your vehicle's transmission? From automatic to manual or manual to auto — our experienced team handles transmission conversions for a wide range of vehicles.
FIND USED SPARE PARTS -
What Is a Transmission Conversion?
A transmission conversion — sometimes called a ‘gearbox conversion’ or ‘trans swap’ — involves changing the type of transmission fitted to a vehicle. The most common conversions are automatic-to-manual (where a driver wants more control and engagement) and manual-to-automatic (where practicality and ease of driving are the priority).
Transmission conversions are more involved than a simple gearbox swap. Depending on the vehicle, the work may include changes to the driveshaft, crossmember, ECU, wiring, clutch pedal assembly, gear selector and related components. Done correctly, the result is a vehicle that drives exactly as intended.
At First Auto Parts, we have the parts, the knowledge and the workshop capability to handle these conversions — drawing on our deep inventory of gearboxes, driveline components and sourced parts.
Our Transmission Conversion Services
We have hands-on experience with transmission conversions across a wide range of popular Australian and international vehicles, including:
Automatic to Manual Conversion
One of the most requested conversions particularly for 4×4 enthusiasts and drivers who want greater control over their vehicle. We assess your specific vehicle and build configuration, source compatible gearbox and driveline components, and carry out the conversion to a high standard.
Manual to Automatic Conversion
Ideal for vehicles used in stop-start urban environments, or where ease of driving is the priority. Automatic conversions require careful matching of the transmission, ECU and ancillaries to your specific vehicle. Our team has experience across multiple makes and models.
Gearbox Supply & Fitment
If you’re not converting — just replacing — we can source and fit compatible gearboxes from our extensive inventory. All gearboxes are tested before fitment and backed by warranty.
Driveline Component Supply
Conversion work often requires additional driveline components driveshafts, crossmembers, clutch assemblies, transfer cases and more. Drawing on our dismantling inventory, we can source what’s needed and reduce project cost.
Makes & Models We Work With
We have hands-on experience with transmission conversions across a wide range of popular Australian and international vehicles, including:
Toyota
Hilux, Hiace and Prado
327 parts
Ford
Transit, Ranger and Transit Custom
4,068 parts
Volkswagen
Crafter, Transporter and Amarok
423 parts
Mercedes
Sprinter, Vito and Viano
2,634 parts
Mazda
BT50 and CX5
146 parts
Renault
Master, Trafic and Kangoo
1,080 parts
Holden
Colorado and Captiva
63 parts
Why Get Your Conversion Done at First Auto Parts?
- Access to a large inventory of tested, compatible gearboxes and driveline components — from our own dismantling operation
- 35+ years of hands-on experience across all major makes and models
- Realistic advice — we'll tell you upfront what a conversion involves for your specific vehicle
- Competitive pricing — using parts sourced from our own inventory keeps costs down
- Warranty on parts supplied — major mechanical components backed by our standard six-month warranty
- Workshop and supply under one roof — no running between different suppliers
How We Approach a Conversion
Initial Enquiry & Assessment
Tell us your vehicle, the conversion you want and your intended use. We’ll discuss feasibility, what’s involved and what it’ll cost.
Parts Sourcing
We identify the correct gearbox, driveline components and ancillaries from our inventory or through our supplier network.
Workshop Booking
We schedule the work at a time that suits you and provide an estimated completion timeframe.
Conversion & Testing
The conversion is carried out by our experienced team. All work is tested before the vehicle is returned.
Handover
We walk you through the completed work and answer any questions.
Common Questions
Is a transmission conversion legal in Australia?
In most cases, yes — but it depends on the state, vehicle type and modification involved. Significant driveline modifications may require engineering certification or notification to the relevant roads authority. We can advise on what’s required for your specific situation, but always recommend checking with a licensed vehicle modifier or your state roads authority before proceeding.
How long does a conversion take?
It depends heavily on the vehicle and conversion type. Straightforward conversions on common vehicles may take a few days. More complex builds involving ECU changes and custom fabrication can take longer. We’ll give you a realistic estimate at the assessment stage.
Do I need to supply the gearbox?
No. In most cases we can source a compatible gearbox from our own inventory — which keeps costs down and means we can verify the condition of the unit before fitment. If you already have a gearbox, we can assess its suitability.
Will a conversion affect my vehicle's warranty?
If your vehicle is under manufacturer warranty, a transmission conversion will almost certainly affect or void it. For vehicles outside warranty, this isn’t a concern. Again, seek advice specific to your situation.
Ready to Discuss Your Conversion?
Our team is available Monday to Friday, 8am–5pm AEST to assist with warranty enquiries and claims.
Converting your Ford Transit from an Auto Shift Manual to a Full Manual Transmission
First Auto Parts are pioneers with 8 years experience in converting your Ford Transit from an Auto Shift Manual to a Full Manual Transmission.
Over time, wear and tear, your Ford Transit automatic transmission may require replacement as individual parts within your Ford Transit gearbox wear out. This can frequently be a costly expense both in time and dollar value due to the number of intricate parts within the Auto Shift Manual Transmission that need to be diagnosed and fixed.
At First Auto Parts we can convert your ASM transmission to a full manual gearbox in a timely and professional manner, so that your Ford Transit is back on the road.
Example Of A Recent Ford Transit Conversion Carried Out At Our Seaford Workshop:
“Thank you for your enquiry in regards to converting the Ford Transit from an ASM to a full manual transmission.
This conversion brings with it many advantages, such as greater control over the vehicle, reduced servicing and repair costs, saving money in the long run, and not to mention increasing your resale value, as the ASM units are known to be troublesome.
In order for us to provide the best quality and to make sure that your vehicle is able to be improved on by our workshop, you will need to provide us with the VIN Number.
We will test and re-use your gearbox after making some in house modifications from your VH-VJ Transit. We will supply and fit the pedal assembly and all necessary wiring, ECU plus reprogramming or replacing as required, linkages, gear shifter, lines, steering wheel and dash fascia. Over the course of 5 business days your troublesome ASM unit will be replaced with a more traditional manual shift.
The unit and all work completed will also come with a 6-month, 20,000km warranty on any parts & labour that have been used or worked on in the process of improving your vehicle.
Example Of Quote for this type of conversion:
Towing from 2621 = $ 675.00
Gearbox with conversion kit (Supplied & Fitted) = $ 5000.00
Brand new clutch (Optional) = $ 1000.00 (OEM Spec Single Mass Includes Flywheel & Thrust Bearing)
All prices quoted are inclusive of 10% GST