85 4runner auto-2-5speed swap???

[PGH854runner]

I have,love,and abuse my 85 4runner but it is an automatic i can't take this anymore!!!!i just got an 87 extended cab pickup,bad 22re motor,severely rusted out frame you know a nice one,but it does have a perfect 5speed with tcase,and all related pedals,clutch master/slave etc.......has anyone done this swap??? it seems straightforward my biggest worries are computer related will the motor still run once the tranny is unplugged and will the crossmembers line up and driveshaft length b ok? thanx for any insight..........also are these 85 automatics rare or valuable cause im gonna have one for sale soon??

 

[Hilux]

I have,love,and abuse my 85 4runner but it is an automatic i can't take this anymore!!!!i just got an 87 extended cab pickup,bad 22re motor,severely rusted out frame you know a nice one,but it does have a perfect 5speed with tcase,and all related pedals,clutch master/slave etc.......has anyone done this swap??? it seems straightforward my biggest worries are computer related will the motor still run once the tranny is unplugged and will the crossmembers line up and driveshaft length b ok? thanx for any insight..........

Hey, if they're both EFI and around the same vintage, you might get lucky and just have to replace a snippet of wiring from the donor to the 4Runner harness. I've only seen a neutral safety switch, a backup light sensor and I think there is something else, that are the only things a MT is wired for.

You also MIGHT get lucky in that everything off the donor (shafts, X member) will work on the Runner. IDK, b/c I haven't done it. All I dropped in for was to say if you do it, take a ton of pics and if it isn't in FAQ yet, maybe 2ndGen will put it in.


I'd be breaking out the tape if you want to get a better heads-up.

also are these 85 automatics rare or valuable cause im gonna have one for sale soon??

Yeah, you're sitting on a gold mine there, buddy.

IIRC, no. The CODE on the door jam is EXACTLY the same on up to the Tacomas. A340H or something like that.

There is something like it has smaller internals, and weaker valves or some thing to that effect. (I forgot)

 

[KLF]

It's been done many times, it's easier than you think. Crossmember & driveshafts are the same. Swap the pedal unit out, drill a big hole for the clutch master. The only wiring issue is jumpering the neutral start safety circuit, and hooking up the 4WD & R lights. The center console is the hardest part, getting it to look right.

Put the tranny on craigslist, see if some fool will buy it, ya never know.

 

[HJ-45CrewCab]

I have done this swap twice, first on an 85 4runner, then on my 95 4runner. You will appreciate the difference, the auto is such a drag on these low HP motors. Having a donor is the way to go. Change rear main seal while doing the clutch and inspect the donor pedal bracket for any cracks/fractures. If there is any deficiency with the pedal bracket, the clutch wont disengage. Have to remove dash bulbs for anything associated with A/T (high temp, PWR, overdrive etc) Good luck.

 

[PGH854runner]

not only does the tranny suck up all my torque i keep getting no fluid pressure and no gears just park and 5 neutrals......when its standing on the rear bumper with the front pointed straight up it loses drive....embarrasing.........i drove my friends 91 ext cab 5speed and was jealous of the stick shift.....he has the 3.slow which seemed a little quicker than my 22really slow too.....im gettin passed by garbage trucks on the turnpike!!!