A/T (automatic) to M/T (Manual) swap on a Spyder

[GRNDSM]

So, there are numerous threads on how to do this swap, but I haven't seen this issue addressed:

What do you do about the convertible top neutral/safety switch? I am in the middle of the swap and need to put up the top, but it isn't working. I suspect that that safety switch which prevents you from lowering the top in gear is not working (shifter/tranny are all out at this point).

Where does top controller get this signal?

Even if I manually over ride the top, I will be all set for now, but eventually, I will have to figure this out.

Thank you,

 

[GRNDSM]

Another related question: at the last minute, I decided to swap in a 5sp engine harness (95 GSX) into my automatic (96 GST) Spyder. I know this isn't necessary, but i wanted to make this a cleaner install.

Some obvious differences:

- manual harness 6.5 lbs
- auto harness 8.5 lbs
- 95 uses "1g style", single MPI relay
- 96 uses "2gb style", two MPI relays

I thought this MPI change happened in 97, but I am obviously wrong. It shouldn't matter, as long as I swap the complete engine harness... Or does it?

I would appreciate if anyone with experience with topic chimes in!

If nothing else, I will report with my finding and we will have some answers

 

[96DSM_Steve]

For the cover switch to work did you try bypassing the neutral safety switch?

 

[GRNDSM]

I am trying to focus on putting 5sp harness, at the moment.

There are three plugs that connect engine harness to the car (5sp is on top):

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The good news is that plug are the same... The bad news is that I can see a LOT of differences in the pins So far, I can't find complete pinout of these connectors. Has anyone ever looed them up?

 

[GRNDSM]

I guess I will just give it a try and see what happens

 

[96DSM_Steve]

So what is the update?

 

[GRNDSM]

So... it just worked... I am not sure how/where convertible top computer gets its information about neutral gear, but switching to 5sp harness provided all the needed wiring! The top works perfectly! I suspect I would have had to do a bunch of custom wiring, had I kept my automatic harness...