business-spice

Hello, I am looking to do a quality build of an EK JDM hatch and have the opportunity to buy either a cheap `98 fagamatic for $1,500 or a better condition `99 for $5,000. With either I plan on swapping a B16, all new suspension, brakes, mostly all new interior, paint, etc. Looking to do the build right over time and with no budget in mind really, up to $15 - $20,000 when completed. If I buy the `98 I would also convert the `99-`00 conversion. But the cheaper one comes in auto, which I hate. But it could be my opportunity to buy a very cheap shell of a DX and drop in a stick tranny of my choice. Does anyone in the know have any ideas? Is it better to pay more up front and stick with a stock 5 spd DX tranny or is it worth it to replace the trans? Can you do a 6 spd in a DX hatch? What about is the tranny in a SI any better than that in a DX? What is a rough idea on what the cost may be as well an best place to find a new transmission?

Thanks for any help

Dustin

OKCZombie

I'd go with the one already 5 speed especially if going to swap. Either use the stock b16 tranny from a 99/00 si - or a hydro integra gsr tranny on the motor.

BrutalB83

I think you're confused about a few things...

You MUST use a B-series tranny on a B-series engine. If you want to swap a B16, then re-using the stock DX transmission isn't even a choice. Like the other guy mentioned, you can use the 99-00 Si transmission, or an Integra GS-R transmission. You can also use an Integra LS tranny, but the gear ratios suck. I'd just look for a complete B16 swap (engine, tranny, ECU, etc.). That will be the easiest thing for you.

As far as which one to buy, it's really kind of a toss up. I think the general consensus on auto-to-manual swaps is that they cost around $1,000-$1,500. In that case, it may be more economical to buy the cheaper automatic and convert. You did say that money isn't an issue however, so if the manual-tranny car is in better shape, you might want to go with that and have less headaches when it comes time to do the swap.

Oh, and yes, there is a difference between the gearing in the DX, EX, Si, etc. transmissions. The base models are geared longer, which means they get good gas mileage, but acceleration sucks. The sportier models are geared more aggressively, so the gas mileage might be a little worse, but the acceleration will be much improved.

Honestly, I think your best bet is to just get the transmission that goes with whatever motor you plan on using. That way, the gearing will be optimized to the engine's power-band.

Hope that helps...

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