2001 E53 4.4L 6MT swap?

[williamx5]

Originally Posted by BimmerM3inGA

Well, if you figure out a way to do the conversion for a reasonable amount of money, I think a lot of folks would be interested in the details - Myself included. My original fantasy was that it could be done for roughly the same cost as replacing a failed automatic with a new one from BMW. WRONG! A new BMW automatic transmission is a much cheaper option.

WOW! I really hope I can pull this off! Almost wish I had done the hard stuff to determine that it could either be done how I want, or know there's no way and not get anyone's hopes up... So, I guess I better make this work and get it to cost less than a new auto from BMW! I love a challenge! Bring it on!

Good day lo_jack! Thanks so much for the info! I have been looking at the 7 series boards, and is been good reading, but they are using the N62 V8.. Those are in our 2004 and up E53's (I already have one). Those N62s like having a 2004 and up 545i manual trans behind them.

I'm sticking with the 2001 to 2003 E53 so I can use my 2001 540i spare trans. The 2004 and up conversion might happen IF this one goes like I want it and I get enough requests to attempt the same on the newer power plant!

However, in both cases, I'm not going to bother with keeping the AWD. I have not seen a V8 manual E53 yet in the states from BMW... If BMW only knew how many units they would have sold (not gonna speculate, but I think it would have been enough to cover tooling and such costs to have it built! They could have at least tried it!).....

So, this project will be strictly to make a V8 6 speed RWD E53 out of completely stock BMW parts and done as cheap as possible with mostly used parts (that generally don't wear out to begin with)!

Well all, I'm off for a few days. I work third, so getting this going is hit or miss with the holidays! The normal selling market turns into holiday shopping! This might not get full into the works until after the holidays!

Stay tuned and be safe out there!

Happy holidays to you and yours!