Has anyone attempted converting a '68 coupe that came from the factory with an automatic transmission to a 4 speed? I have an opportunity to buy a Muncie T-21 4 speed transmission to go with my 400 that is being built. Now's the time for me to be making the decision. Someone told me recently that the conversion will be difficult and expensive.
Some folks have told me that putting the 4 speed in will significantly enhance the value of the car. It is not a numbers-matching car, so that may not be true.
I purchased the car with no engine or transmission, so I'm not sure which automatic is came with.
Converting the car to a 4 speed is not that hard - you just need all the right parts. I don't know about increasing the value of the car - it's only worth more to you and anyone else who wants a 4 speed car and is not worried about originality.
You will need a trans, bellhousing, flywheel, drive shaft, transmission crossmember, pedals, Z-bar, linkage, etc. All of which are available new or used (here or on eBay).
Now is definately the time to do it. I converted my convertible to a 4 speed because I like it better than an automatic. I did save the original TH-400 and related parts - just in case I sell it and someone wants to convert it back.
In my opinion a 4 speed car is worth more original or not. I like original but the market likes a 4 speed. You can usually find a complete conversion on a Pontiac site or on eBay for around $1000. Since you already have the transmission it would be less. If you are going to do it be sure you like to shift. Jim
Deffinitely go with the 4-speed. I have a numbers matching car, but the conversion is all bolt on so I am doing it too. I hate to say it but e-bay is pretty good at finding the parts. I found many listings that had the complete set up for sale (z bar, pedals, bell housing, drive shaft...) Besides, what is more cool that an old muscle car with a 4-speed? Check out the FAQ on this site for info on the swap.
