Banks Wood , dude I was just thinking the same thing... this dude always starts the race over enthusiastic, and then quits with no reason. I had to unsubscribe because I think his motivation is quantity of Subscribers as opposed to quality of the video.
Tavarish, I am an electrical design engineer and I've spent the past 15 years doing automotive stuff. I've decoded CAN interfaces, developed piggyback ECU's with predictive fuel/ignition advance curves, and I have been around cars all my life. And I wouldn't touch a project like this with a 10-foot pole. Intercepting CAN messages and faking the car into thinking it has an auto tranny installed is going to be beyond a nightmare. Even for the guys at Mercedes who write the software that runs in the ECU that controls the car - this would be a big and difficult job. Don't get me wrong - it sounds like a cool idea, but I just think this will turn into a time and money pit that will never get done. Not unless you have a crack automotive EE and software guy involved who is intimately familiar with the relevant computer modules on your model/year SL55 and has many hundreds of hours to donate to your cause for free. I fear it will become uninteresting for the viewers too because it's a monumental amount of work that would be utterly boring to document in videos. Your money, your car, your choice... but at least promise us that if you do engage in this lunacy, you'll document it accurately in videos so we can watch the whole thing implode :)
I agree, as an electrical engineer and expert embedded systems programmer myself. These computers blow internal fuses to hide their encryption codes and be unable to pair with any others. A full replacement to model the engines operating controls is in order. It's like trying to crack a TPM on a modern day computer. Difficult if you don't have NSA level resources. Does DMCA apply to auto computers? That kind of skill could be better spent building a cloud application/phone app and get rich that way, rather than a hobby. Now a third party universal engine control computer for "off road use", that may be a small submarket.
John, That is a good point - trying to "fake out" the factory ECU (or whatever sub-module controls the transmission) is such a huge amount of work that it's probably not TOO far away from just ripping out the entire factory ECU and replacing it with an aftermarket system. I know Tavarish and others would say "hell no! I'd lose SO MUCH! All the sensors and specialized controls would be rendered useless". Exactly... and there at least that many specialized controls and sensors in the transmission. Perhaps the biggest issue would be making it work under all circumstances... I mean, even if you get it running/driving under normal use, there will be fringe cases, such as when traction control kicks in and the ECU is expecting a specific response or set of criteria from the transmission control module - you'll never know what all those fringe cases are without countless hours of testing in hot, cold, start-up, heat soak, without traction and countless other cases that probably can't even be imagined. Without months of driving and testing and fixing all the bugs, the result would be a car that is constantly throwing codes and (it lucky) entering limp-home mode. It would be an absolute nightmare. Tavarish, what is the reason for wanting to put a manual in this thing anyway? I get that it's a unique and interesting project... but honestly, this is sort of like "Let's made an all wheel drive Dodge Viper" territory - way beyond feasible, especially starting with a cheap used car and not being an EE with automotive ECU experience yourself.
Watch Roadkill and cringe ;) That said, Tavarish, you have one huge obstacle to such a project; not enough shop. Lathe, End-mill, TIG welder, sheet-metal brake, are going to be the minimum equipment for such a project and you simply do not have those. There is also the small detail of you being a few hundred square feet short of space. ;) Expand your garage out another bay and build a 3 bay outbuilding with an attached machine shop. Then you might consider such a project. Oh and, forget the pool. It just attracts gators and skeeters ;) . Melange Bryce and John Richardson do have another point. You may be able to find your way around a Data Center but, I'm a retired EE (California Aerospace/DoD) and almost 20 years in telco. ECUs are written in C++ and are also very well protected. You ain't hacking into them or with them. The only after-market ECUs that I am aware of are Haltech, Holly, Ford Racing, and General Motors. Haltech is probably the more approachable but probably not for German equipment. Blue Sky thinking is all well and good but, you simply do not have the infrastructure to pull off such a project.
As I recall an old trick for converting to manual is to trick the ECU into thinking the transmission is in neutral. That way the engine revs freely. I would imagine that might not be so easy to do on a electronics heavy Mercedes.
siemenssx1 as far as I know, currently there is no custom ECU for this kind of mod, but you can use custom engine parts which would allow acceleration mechanically without electronic aids.
Tavarish, love your channel, I love Mercedes, (love manual cars too) have worked on many benz's over the years, know many people who have...you're taking on a monumental challenge here. Just thinking of how you're going to get the tcu to communicate properly with a benz ecu hurts my head. And then all the electrical gremlins that will pop up when this happens. Your dash will look like a Christmas tree. However, I am ready to be impressed!
It's unfortunate you want the rims go 😞 I think they are very fitting but thats just my taste lol Good luck with that project, I've always wanted to know if something like this was possible
I am enjoying the $8900 SL video series. I have an X308 XJR, which is a pretty similar car in that it's an early 2000's expensive European car that's now quite cheap. It has a supercharged V8 and the exact same 5G-tronic transmission as the SL.
I don't see this working out at all but i hope you prove me wrong. I see a massive money pit happening and big problems trying to get everything to sync up with the Mercedes ecu and electrical system.
Good Luck! Such a good powertrain in these 55k cars, would be so fun with a manual - but I can understand why they never did it in the first place. The torque of the s/c V8 and V12 bi-turbo cars which share transmissions would make minced meat of any clutch unless it was serious race-type clutch - which wouldn't go well with Mercedes comfort anyways.
AMGmeister.in my opinion, mercedes could have developed or souced a manual that could handle the power but this car is a luxury car essentially, no one wants a manual in a luxury car . or atleast i dont.
Its more of a demand thing for sure. There are dual and even tripple clutches in the aftermarket industry with almost stock clutch feel which can hold up more than that. You're talking about clutches for guys with twin turbo Corvettes/ Viper or high hp Toyota Supras with more than 1000hp. I think its just dangarous, oncomfortable to run a very high powerlevel so MB choose to make it auto only. And you can use normal street tires if you run an auto. Traction becomes more of an issue with a manual.
I'll be rooting for you.. but this is madness. This task will be as expensive as this whole car was to purchase. Which leads me to the next point.. please put "$8,900" as part of the title on each and every one of the videos related to this build..
su1ac0 everything is possible if you throw money at it. And to be honest, there's a chance it could be close to $9-$10 grand.. possibly it has never been attempted due to the fact that SL55s for less than $10,000 are like unicorns AND more importantly no one in their right mind would remove a well working transmission on this car unless strictly necessary. Much less on an example that possibly ran in the $30,000 range cause it was a well sorted out one.
Congrats on your SL55 AMG. I know it very well. You will never get tired of its beauty. I have driven fair distances with it between Toronto and Ottawa Canada. It is arguably the best GT for the money - in the world. I have an 87 air cooled 3.2. As well I had an E38 740i 2001. When I needed a new trans at 179 km. I considered an M5 or a 540 manual six speed. People thought I was crazy. It would've been one hell of a task $$ . However on an SL 55 it makes sense. Good luck. I appreciate your channel and what your doing.
If this project works perfectly and I mean PERFECTLY!! no dashboard lights, working speedometer, every module connected to the CAN bus works normally, Im going to: 1. Call you master, 2. Move to FL and work as your servant for free, 3. My ML 500 will be yours so you can change it to manual transmission too...
Not possible. Sorry. The only way this will be remotely possible is if you dump loads of money into it. The cost of fabricating and different expenses related to engineering a manual transmission into this chassis will exceed the price of the car and more. It won't be a MB anymore anyways, the slow and smooth shifts from the 722.6 transmission are key.
Well it's just in terms of time and money. There have been numerous unsuccessful attempts in transplanting a manual transmission into cars of this nature. You're entitled to spend your money however you like, that's not my place to tell you what to do. Just from my experience, these engines/transmissions were essentially meant to be one. It's really hard to mend the M113K to any other transmission without extensive development. But hey, it's your choice, I wish you luck.
The SL is perfect as it is. It is not a sports car, more of a GT than anything else. The automatic transmission and the smooth ride provided by the air suspension suit this car perfectly. Just keep it in good shape and enjoy it as it is; do not ruin it. :(
Tavarish, awesome videos. I just bought an E55 AMG for my dad and I feel just as passionate as you of your SL55. Keep up with the enthusiasm! I'll upload some videos shortly.
tavarish, new to your channel, I purchased an 03 sl 500 bout 2 years ago, 54,000 miles, amg sport package wide body, black on black, car fax with no wrecks ,well serviced, sold out of Beverley Hills Mercedes, car is immaculate, I didnt get near the deal u did but happy with what I paid, fricking car is amazing, I have redone front rear valve blocks, acumulaters, eng and trans mounts, abc flush, doing all the work in my garage, my struts were rebuilt in 2015, one less thing to worry bout, money saved by doing work myself was tremendous , any way lots of negative haters out there, keep your head up ,for one I think your doing great, ever come to cali look me up
Title hooked me. Can't wait to see this turn out. One of the biggest detraction from Affalterbachs offerings has always been the lack of a third pedal. Good luck.
Hi mate I couldn't change the oil filter on my girlfriends Peugeot 208 but I love watching people like yourself get stuck into projects like this! All the best from Scotland👍🏻
while I admire your optimism, I can't help but think this will end something like this. for sale 2003 sl55, ex project car,a change of circumstances forces sale,good engine and gearbox needs a little too,$thousands spent,but need the room,$9000 firm. please prove me wrong.
This channel is sooooooooooooo contagious, you start watching and 5 hrs go by like water under the GWB. Fantastic if you own a Benz and can't do shit, like me.
What do you mean by "bad"? Sure, its only a 5 speed automatic, not a 7 speed, 10 speed, or double clutch. Or preferred 6 speed. But they appear to be reliable. For the cars factory configured weight and luxury market is "ok". I do wish mine had a 6 speed as well, which is what brought me here. Listening to his mods, through, I would just pick up a used ZR1 Corvette is I want to be speed racer. (Used to have a ZR1 and wanted luxury with a kick instead now).
Dang dude. That's ballzy. I'm definitely rooting for you! I'm guessing you'll end up having to do a custom ECU but definitely give your idea a try first . Good luck man
have only been a recent subscriber (past 3 month) and have loves your content. But you have totally outdone yourself man, I am so excited to follow you through this. Good luck, I'll be watching intently from KC
I hope you have plenty of money, patience and knowledge to make this work for you. You are literally messing with one of the automotive world's most complicated and sensitive MOST bus based electrical system. You are going to need a whole new driveshaft and possibly even a rear differential as the final drive ratio it currently has may not suit your manual transmission well. You will have to custom tune your ECU, because the tuning for a manual car will be entirely different and so much more. You could not have picked a more complex car to do this on. I'm not saying that it's not possible, but it will take more time and money than you are expecting. Just my two cents. Good Luck!
Tavarish dude you really need to research this more. if you actually try, this car will never move again. you'll be parting it out in no time. I've been around only MBs since the 90s, this swap isn't happening. this will be the last video we see it move on its own power
Tavarish haha you're gonna have no choice when you realize you need another 25k to replace the sbc suspension to make your $50k transmission swap work, let alone the $50k you'll need to have your entire canbus system custom reprogrammed from scratch to get your gauges, controls, safety features, windows, roof, and entertainment systems working again
Manual swapped a tiptronic jetta Gli to 6 speed manual 02M. Never got the reverse lights to work and the speedometer never worked but I'll tell you one thing. It was one of the most satisfying moments of my life. Removing that terrible trash sliptronic and putting in a low mile (18k) proper 6 speed manual. My dream became reality. Custom 6 speed manual 2005 VW GLI tornado red. Loved it. Sure it's a bit different because you could buy it that way but the idea was the same. Plus I learned a lot of techniques to fix a lot of problems doing it myself. I can't imagine what it'll take for something like this but you're taking a right angle asking everyone for help. I was stuck hours and hours researching on forums and no one is clear on anything. Especially wiring, programming etc. Fully support the idea and wish you the best of luck. I'll be watching your vids. Didn't like you at first lol but your videos grew on me. You're positivity is refreshing. Your passion for cheap exotics and DIY projects is awesome. Keep up the good work.
Hey Tavarish, Luv your enthusiasm. For those capapable of doing the work themselves, the R230 offers the most bang for the buck. Most of them are on their 2nd or 3rd owners by now, and when they get that 1st big bill for either the ABC, or SBC, they decide to dump the vehicle and buy new. I just picked up one 8 weeks ago as well. The previous owner had to replace the shocks last year, and then all the hydraulic lines a few months ago. I had one of the Dealer reports that you just received to look at before the purchase, and had to hide my smiles since all of the 'expensive' stuff had already been done. I'd suggest that if your pumps (SBC & ABC) are in good working order, that you go ahead and replace the brushes as a preventative measure since when the pumps go, they take out other parts of the system that wouldn't have otherwise seen damage. Best $10 you'll spend on this wonderful car imo. All those stereo related codes will remain in the computer and keep reappearing since the original; Command system was violated and an aftermarket system installed. Since Teleaid is dead, the Command system is sadly dated, you can just shed all that gear (it all resides under the 2 rear cubbies and are an easy delete. Once you get your STAR multiplexer, you can permanently delete the stored codes of the Command components, and prevent them from returning. You haven't mentioned if you plan on keeping the ABC, or switch to coilovers? But if you're keeping the ABC, then check the nitrogen in both accumulators, and if it's low, it's a good idea to replace them before they fail. Just not worth coming out to the parking lot and seeing your car undriveable due to the body sitting on the tires. Both are pretty easily replaced in an afternoon and you'll have peace of mind. I'm not one who ever really tries to discourage people from attempting a project of their choosing. I'm of the firm belief that any money somebody earns, they get to spend any way they choose. I think you're going to have to decide on completing your manual swap another way though. If you're not yet aware, the motor and Trans ECU's are a mated pair. By design, they commit suicide when a non matching TCU or ECU are attempted to be mated to either of them. I'm not sure how you're going to get around that if you attempt to access control of either without access to some rather expensive Mercedes coding hardware/software - plus some Mercedes engineering advice. But just be aware before you start attempting modding either of them. Would hate to see you going through the expensive process of killing ECU's and TCU's through trial and error. You can of course go the Megasquirt route and control the engine and trans that way, but you'll then have to figure out a way to bypass the data read by the SBC and ride height systems - and obviously have to deal with all the fault messages that will be present on your Dash warning LCD's. I'm looking forward to continuing to follow your project! Luv these vids!!
Wow this project surprised me. I love how your building basically what you define as the perfect car. I hope everything works out. I'll be with you all the way😎
Look for the KW DDC suspension. It’s fully customizable (for a comfortable soft to a sporty and stiff feel) with your phone. Costs like the OEM suspension from Mercedes. :)
It's going to be rough, but I think it can be done. This is the kind of job that takes limitless motivation to push forward so I hope you can manage. Good luck man, if I were you I'd switch out the drive train computers rather than fighting with Mercedes.
I absolutely love your videos on this Benz. It's going to be very interesting to see a manual conversion on this beast. Good luck with the conversion! As a tip, you should replace the supercharger pulley bearing, as they always fail on the M113K motors and make a loud annoying grind at startup.
I vote kw variant 3s for your suspension. Also, check out Astro Performance Transmission, they build racing stuff out of Eustice. They did a good job on mine. If you pull this off you have a marketable product practically with that conversion.
Hopefully TH-cam will still be around when you have finished with the build
I enjoy your vids and vision but Dude you need to finish a project.
Banks Wood , dude I was just thinking the same thing...
this dude always starts the race over enthusiastic, and then quits with no reason. I had to unsubscribe because I think his motivation is quantity of Subscribers as opposed to quality of the video.
3 years later and the transmission hasn't been touched on that car and he still has it 😂
Tavarish, I am an electrical design engineer and I've spent the past 15 years doing automotive stuff. I've decoded CAN interfaces, developed piggyback ECU's with predictive fuel/ignition advance curves, and I have been around cars all my life. And I wouldn't touch a project like this with a 10-foot pole. Intercepting CAN messages and faking the car into thinking it has an auto tranny installed is going to be beyond a nightmare. Even for the guys at Mercedes who write the software that runs in the ECU that controls the car - this would be a big and difficult job.
Don't get me wrong - it sounds like a cool idea, but I just think this will turn into a time and money pit that will never get done. Not unless you have a crack automotive EE and software guy involved who is intimately familiar with the relevant computer modules on your model/year SL55 and has many hundreds of hours to donate to your cause for free.
I fear it will become uninteresting for the viewers too because it's a monumental amount of work that would be utterly boring to document in videos.
Your money, your car, your choice... but at least promise us that if you do engage in this lunacy, you'll document it accurately in videos so we can watch the whole thing implode :)
I agree, as an electrical engineer and expert embedded systems programmer myself. These computers blow internal fuses to hide their encryption codes and be unable to pair with any others. A full replacement to model the engines operating controls is in order. It's like trying to crack a TPM on a modern day computer. Difficult if you don't have NSA level resources. Does DMCA apply to auto computers?
That kind of skill could be better spent building a cloud application/phone app and get rich that way, rather than a hobby.
Now a third party universal engine control computer for "off road use", that may be a small submarket.
Do you have any evidence, or links to his videos or posts? What are your qualifications to even understand what he is talking about?
John,
That is a good point - trying to "fake out" the factory ECU (or whatever sub-module controls the transmission) is such a huge amount of work that it's probably not TOO far away from just ripping out the entire factory ECU and replacing it with an aftermarket system.
I know Tavarish and others would say "hell no! I'd lose SO MUCH! All the sensors and specialized controls would be rendered useless". Exactly... and there at least that many specialized controls and sensors in the transmission.
Perhaps the biggest issue would be making it work under all circumstances... I mean, even if you get it running/driving under normal use, there will be fringe cases, such as when traction control kicks in and the ECU is expecting a specific response or set of criteria from the transmission control module - you'll never know what all those fringe cases are without countless hours of testing in hot, cold, start-up, heat soak, without traction and countless other cases that probably can't even be imagined.
Without months of driving and testing and fixing all the bugs, the result would be a car that is constantly throwing codes and (it lucky) entering limp-home mode. It would be an absolute nightmare.
Tavarish, what is the reason for wanting to put a manual in this thing anyway? I get that it's a unique and interesting project... but honestly, this is sort of like "Let's made an all wheel drive Dodge Viper" territory - way beyond feasible, especially starting with a cheap used car and not being an EE with automotive ECU experience yourself.
Would it be easier to fit the body and interior onto an MB frame with engine/manual transmission?
I've read about a Bronco put onto a Raptor.
Watch Roadkill and cringe ;)
That said, Tavarish, you have one huge obstacle to such a project; not enough shop. Lathe, End-mill, TIG welder, sheet-metal brake, are going to be the minimum equipment for such a project and you simply do not have those. There is also the small detail of you being a few hundred square feet short of space. ;) Expand your garage out another bay and build a 3 bay outbuilding with an attached machine shop. Then you might consider such a project. Oh and, forget the pool. It just attracts gators and skeeters ;) .
Melange Bryce and John Richardson do have another point. You may be able to find your way around a Data Center but, I'm a retired EE (California Aerospace/DoD) and almost 20 years in telco. ECUs are written in C++ and are also very well protected. You ain't hacking into them or with them. The only after-market ECUs that I am aware of are Haltech, Holly, Ford Racing, and General Motors. Haltech is probably the more approachable but probably not for German equipment.
Blue Sky thinking is all well and good but, you simply do not have the infrastructure to pull off such a project.
I really like where this is going
Thanks!
Go with 20" wheels, 19" tires are too expensive and limited in design and would close that gap up.
Ernie Mathmathlage but its going to get lowered. Get 18' with a meaty tire
Young BoiAquan Yeah that'll work too!
:/
As I recall an old trick for converting to manual is to trick the ECU into thinking the transmission is in neutral. That way the engine revs freely. I would imagine that might not be so easy to do on a electronics heavy Mercedes.
Jeremy Huff nope. neutral still limits the rpm to 4k.
su1ac0 it allows to rev aslong as the car is rollin even little bit if not moving it does not allow it to rev over 4k
JRT there's a speed at which it removes the 4k limit, around 35mph. say goodbye to 0 to 60 time if you can't even red line first gear.
su1ac0 no.. aslong the car moves even just abit it allows it to rev to redline
JRT mine doesn't.
I just got an SL55 this month... what a phenomenal car. I love that a TH-camr is using it for a project. Can't wait to see the progress of the build.
I love how the rear tail lights have that stock smoked out look!
Edward me to I love that
Edward Even cooler that only the AMGs had it in the beginning! Made them stand out more
Samuel Abraham its the small things that make the car pop!
Edward I
wowwww... did not see that coming... there will be so many electronics in it which would cause you so much headache...
siemenssx1 the gearbox talks to the ecu but if the automatic doesn't talk to the ecu then the car will freak out
siemenssx1 as far as I know, currently there is no custom ECU for this kind of mod, but you can use custom engine parts which would allow acceleration mechanically without electronic aids.
Mercedes
OHOHOHOHOHOHOH NO PRICE IN THE TITLE 😂🤙🏻
LOLOLOLOL
Tavarish hey what's up bud I'm a really big Lexus enthusiastcan I please buy your Lexus SC 400
Paul Adams eh?
Kai Preshaw what
Paul Adams just the way you typed that made you sound desperate
Tavarish, love your channel, I love Mercedes, (love manual cars too) have worked on many benz's over the years, know many people who have...you're taking on a monumental challenge here. Just thinking of how you're going to get the tcu to communicate properly with a benz ecu hurts my head. And then all the electrical gremlins that will pop up when this happens. Your dash will look like a Christmas tree. However, I am ready to be impressed!
Tavarish you are Coo Coo for Cocoa Puffs. COO COO FOR COCOA PUFFS!
Hoovies Garage I'm pretty sure he got the car for $8900 so clearly he's pretty smart
A like for Hoovie and no response to your fans. Sigh. 😂
It's unfortunate you want the rims go 😞 I think they are very fitting but thats just my taste lol
Good luck with that project, I've always wanted to know if something like this was possible
100%, one of my favorite factory rims
I actually like them too
Agree with Tavarish Rims suck, Would look good on 80s Lincoln Cont.
I am enjoying the $8900 SL video series. I have an X308 XJR, which is a pretty similar car in that it's an early 2000's expensive European car that's now quite cheap. It has a supercharged V8 and the exact same 5G-tronic transmission as the SL.
Car-TH-cam needed this project. Hope it is going well and doesn´t take too long.
I don't see this working out at all but i hope you prove me wrong. I see a massive money pit happening and big problems trying to get everything to sync up with the Mercedes ecu and electrical system.
Duo02 Yeap, exactly.
It will be an issue for sure, but everything is fixable.
Tavarish only takes money and some effort...no problem
your positivity starts to worry me... but I hope the build works...
David Westernall You hit all the points. It would definitely be a pain in the ass. Need to hire a few engineers.
a manual is exactly what the SL needs! Following this.
Cool project. Gonna be a lot of work. The T56 will definitely need the upgraded steel shift forks and more with that much hp.
Episodes on the SL55 is the closest I've gotten to reliving the euphoria of saturday morning cartoons. Keep em coming Tav!!
very nice man! do your thing!!
This project may be the coolest electrical nightmare ever
Good Luck! Such a good powertrain in these 55k cars, would be so fun with a manual - but I can understand why they never did it in the first place. The torque of the s/c V8 and V12 bi-turbo cars which share transmissions would make minced meat of any clutch unless it was serious race-type clutch - which wouldn't go well with Mercedes comfort anyways.
AMGmeister.in my opinion, mercedes could have developed or souced a manual that could handle the power but this car is a luxury car essentially, no one wants a manual in a luxury car . or atleast i dont.
Of any clutch? Ever heard of twin disc clutches? Like in a 800nm zr1 Corvette. They hold up just fine.
The 65 benzes are 1000nm stock. Just a tune brings it to 1200+
Its more of a demand thing for sure. There are dual and even tripple clutches in the aftermarket industry with almost stock clutch feel which can hold up more than that. You're talking about clutches for guys with twin turbo Corvettes/ Viper or high hp Toyota Supras with more than 1000hp. I think its just dangarous, oncomfortable to run a very high powerlevel so MB choose to make it auto only. And you can use normal street tires if you run an auto. Traction becomes more of an issue with a manual.
@@AMGmeister Hey man I enjoy your channel bro whats the name of the song you like taking a background on while talking about the AMG's?
When I built my car everyone said that it was stupid to have a V6 corsa... today I kind agree. Go for it Tavarish, originality level over 9000!
I'll be rooting for you.. but this is madness. This task will be as expensive as this whole car was to purchase.
Which leads me to the next point.. please put "$8,900" as part of the title on each and every one of the videos related to this build..
x_Diesel_x if this project were even possible, let alone only 9 grand, he damn sure wouldn't be "worlds first"
su1ac0 everything is possible if you throw money at it. And to be honest, there's a chance it could be close to $9-$10 grand.. possibly it has never been attempted due to the fact that SL55s for less than $10,000 are like unicorns AND more importantly no one in their right mind would remove a well working transmission on this car unless strictly necessary. Much less on an example that possibly ran in the $30,000 range cause it was a well sorted out one.
Congrats on your SL55 AMG. I know it very well. You will never get tired of its beauty. I have driven fair distances with it between Toronto and Ottawa Canada. It is arguably the best GT for the money - in the world. I have an 87 air cooled 3.2. As well I had an E38 740i 2001. When I needed a new trans at 179 km. I considered an M5 or a 540 manual six speed. People thought I was crazy. It would've been one hell of a task $$ . However on an SL 55 it makes sense. Good luck. I appreciate your channel and what your doing.
If this project works perfectly and I mean PERFECTLY!! no dashboard lights, working speedometer, every module connected to the CAN bus works normally, Im going to: 1. Call you master, 2. Move to FL and work as your servant for free, 3. My ML 500 will be yours so you can change it to manual transmission too...
0:03 you say "youre so excited" and then i see a black bush creeping on the right lower corner and im like "well hot DAYUM, he's REALLY excited" lol
I'm a fan and love the channel ✌🏼
Thanks!
bigito525 I'm a helicopter and I love the channel ✌🏼
Tavarish is always excited :)
if you can't get a 3000gt to run what makes you think you can swap a transmission?
I'm pretty stoked for this
Not possible. Sorry. The only way this will be remotely possible is if you dump loads of money into it. The cost of fabricating and different expenses related to engineering a manual transmission into this chassis will exceed the price of the car and more. It won't be a MB anymore anyways, the slow and smooth shifts from the 722.6 transmission are key.
I mean, why even try if things are going to be difficult, right?
Well it's just in terms of time and money. There have been numerous unsuccessful attempts in transplanting a manual transmission into cars of this nature. You're entitled to spend your money however you like, that's not my place to tell you what to do. Just from my experience, these engines/transmissions were essentially meant to be one. It's really hard to mend the M113K to any other transmission without extensive development. But hey, it's your choice, I wish you luck.
The SL is perfect as it is. It is not a sports car, more of a GT than anything else. The automatic transmission and the smooth ride provided by the air suspension suit this car perfectly. Just keep it in good shape and enjoy it as it is; do not ruin it. :(
you better go through with it! don't disappoint us
Tavarish, awesome videos. I just bought an E55 AMG for my dad and I feel just as passionate as you of your SL55. Keep up with the enthusiasm! I'll upload some videos shortly.
Matt Farah better drive this
He's seen it, and he will drive it.
tavarish, new to your channel, I purchased an 03 sl 500 bout 2 years ago, 54,000 miles, amg sport package wide body, black on black, car fax with no wrecks ,well serviced, sold out of Beverley Hills Mercedes, car is immaculate, I didnt get near the deal u did but happy with what I paid, fricking car is amazing, I have redone front rear valve blocks, acumulaters, eng and trans mounts, abc flush, doing all the work in my garage, my struts were rebuilt in 2015, one less thing to worry bout, money saved by doing work myself was tremendous , any way lots of negative haters out there, keep your head up ,for one I think your doing great, ever come to cali look me up
I would imagine converting it would cost more than $8900. Check out the Audi S3 rebuild project on my channel!
Yes, but it's still going to be a budget build.
Holy moly... manual, this will be an impressive build. All the best man!
You should go for a gated shifter.
Maybe!
Title hooked me. Can't wait to see this turn out. One of the biggest detraction from Affalterbachs offerings has always been the lack of a third pedal. Good luck.
I would suggest you to get a Chinese Multiplexer for Mercedes-Benz. ( around $300) A C3 or C4, that will help a lot in your project.
That's on the list.
Said Ridan best purchase I ever made
You are A class mechanic to convert this car to manual, it’s a hell of the job .
A 21 minute video made to explain something that the title clearly reveals
Steven Cordoba dong watch it then
Hi mate I couldn't change the oil filter on my girlfriends Peugeot 208 but I love watching people like yourself get stuck into projects like this! All the best from Scotland👍🏻
Which Mercedes SL55 is this? I have no idea if you don't tell me the price!
What Mercedes? I thought it was called the Cheap SL55 AMG
ZedNova well I thought it was Msl55AMGMsportQUATTRO
R230
Awesome ,cant wait to see a lot more in the future . Go Tavarish !!!
How much did you pay for this SL55 AMG? I forgot.
Said Ridan 8,900$ I forgot so I checked the description haha (joke)
Said Ridan 20000$ so far
Said Ridan He paid 2003 dollar for a car from 8900 year
He sold his life to the devil for that car
2 kidneys
Excited to see how this progresses!
while I admire your optimism, I can't help but think this will end something like this.
for sale 2003 sl55, ex project car,a change of circumstances forces sale,good engine and gearbox needs a little too,$thousands spent,but need the room,$9000 firm.
please prove me wrong.
Absolutely fantastic video series Tavarish really enjoying these videos! Keep up the good work!
Please put those wheels on the S class.
actually I've seen a s550 with similar wheels and it looks gorgeous.
Yeah this is gonna be awesome!
Wonder if he is gonna get a licence plate that says "8900"
This channel is sooooooooooooo contagious, you start watching and 5 hrs go by like water under the GWB. Fantastic if you own a Benz and can't do shit, like me.
"Hey, my name is Tavarish and this is my $8900 Mercedes and I'm going to ruin it".
HI I'M JOHNNY KNOXVILLE AND THIS IS THE MANUAL SWAP
Tavarish the old swicheroo , what a mean trick
What do you mean by "bad"? Sure, its only a 5 speed automatic, not a 7 speed, 10 speed, or double clutch. Or preferred 6 speed. But they appear to be reliable. For the cars factory configured weight and luxury market is "ok". I do wish mine had a 6 speed as well, which is what brought me here. Listening to his mods, through, I would just pick up a used ZR1 Corvette is I want to be speed racer. (Used to have a ZR1 and wanted luxury with a kick instead now).
Dang dude. That's ballzy. I'm definitely rooting for you! I'm guessing you'll end up having to do a custom ECU but definitely give your idea a try first . Good luck man
I'm new to the channel. I'm just wondering, how much did you pay for your SL55 AMG?
Lj Stahl 15k
Man, this is going to be a very interesting project! I am so stoked to see what you have in store for us!
if anyone is wondering it costs $8900
Its an ambitious project. Good luck and hope to see it through to the end.
Just buy a new bumper no reason to repair that trashed bumper is there?
CAm just for the hell of it, he seems to really like this car and want put a lot of effort and time into it.
have only been a recent subscriber (past 3 month) and have loves your content. But you have totally outdone yourself man, I am so excited to follow you through this. Good luck, I'll be watching intently from KC
I hope you have plenty of money, patience and knowledge to make this work for you. You are literally messing with one of the automotive world's most complicated and sensitive MOST bus based electrical system. You are going to need a whole new driveshaft and possibly even a rear differential as the final drive ratio it currently has may not suit your manual transmission well. You will have to custom tune your ECU, because the tuning for a manual car will be entirely different and so much more. You could not have picked a more complex car to do this on. I'm not saying that it's not possible, but it will take more time and money than you are expecting. Just my two cents. Good Luck!
This is all kinds of awesome, finally a proper SL!!!
Terrible idea. No swipes, you couldn't change the starter on your Aston Martin, there's no way this is happening
I could certainly change the starter on my Aston. I just didn't want to. There's a difference.
Tavarish dude you really need to research this more. if you actually try, this car will never move again. you'll be parting it out in no time. I've been around only MBs since the 90s, this swap isn't happening. this will be the last video we see it move on its own power
+Tavarish Nobody wants to change their starter in newer cars xD I definitely hate this job.
I haven't seen the rest of this playlist but this is definitely a sick idea
I think...it's time to sell the aston
Never
Tavarish I respect your decision
Tavarish haha you're gonna have no choice when you realize you need another 25k to replace the sbc suspension to make your $50k transmission swap work, let alone the $50k you'll need to have your entire canbus system custom reprogrammed from scratch to get your gauges, controls, safety features, windows, roof, and entertainment systems working again
big respect for taking on such a project, I'm already very excited to see how it ends
put the wheels on the S500
Really excited for this build! Keep up the good content Tavarish!
360p is life😂
Only the best for the early ones.
Tavarish only 1080p?!!
Can't wait to see this build!
don't do it!!! fix it and drive it...
I love the endless ambition. It helps to keep me going.
can u remind me how much this costs again
alfredo mojica I think it's like $9000?
Hide your cars people. Tavarish be breaking transmission and engine marriages 😂
Keep up the good work man. 👍
NO JUST NO... this car was made for comfort... imo
This project has the makings of being really epic!
Manual swapped a tiptronic jetta Gli to 6 speed manual 02M. Never got the reverse lights to work and the speedometer never worked but I'll tell you one thing. It was one of the most satisfying moments of my life.
Removing that terrible trash sliptronic and putting in a low mile (18k) proper 6 speed manual. My dream became reality. Custom 6 speed manual 2005 VW GLI tornado red. Loved it. Sure it's a bit different because you could buy it that way but the idea was the same. Plus I learned a lot of techniques to fix a lot of problems doing it myself.
I can't imagine what it'll take for something like this but you're taking a right angle asking everyone for help. I was stuck hours and hours researching on forums and no one is clear on anything. Especially wiring, programming etc.
Fully support the idea and wish you the best of luck. I'll be watching your vids. Didn't like you at first lol but your videos grew on me. You're positivity is refreshing. Your passion for cheap exotics and DIY projects is awesome. Keep up the good work.
Hey Tavarish,
Luv your enthusiasm. For those capapable of doing the work themselves, the R230 offers the most bang for the buck. Most of them are on their 2nd or 3rd owners by now, and when they get that 1st big bill for either the ABC, or SBC, they decide to dump the vehicle and buy new.
I just picked up one 8 weeks ago as well. The previous owner had to replace the shocks last year, and then all the hydraulic lines a few months ago. I had one of the Dealer reports that you just received to look at before the purchase, and had to hide my smiles since all of the 'expensive' stuff had already been done. I'd suggest that if your pumps (SBC & ABC) are in good working order, that you go ahead and replace the brushes as a preventative measure since when the pumps go, they take out other parts of the system that wouldn't have otherwise seen damage. Best $10 you'll spend on this wonderful car imo. All those stereo related codes will remain in the computer and keep reappearing since the original; Command system was violated and an aftermarket system installed. Since Teleaid is dead, the Command system is sadly dated, you can just shed all that gear (it all resides under the 2 rear cubbies and are an easy delete. Once you get your STAR multiplexer, you can permanently delete the stored codes of the Command components, and prevent them from returning.
You haven't mentioned if you plan on keeping the ABC, or switch to coilovers? But if you're keeping the ABC, then check the nitrogen in both accumulators, and if it's low, it's a good idea to replace them before they fail. Just not worth coming out to the parking lot and seeing your car undriveable due to the body sitting on the tires. Both are pretty easily replaced in an afternoon and you'll have peace of mind.
I'm not one who ever really tries to discourage people from attempting a project of their choosing. I'm of the firm belief that any money somebody earns, they get to spend any way they choose. I think you're going to have to decide on completing your manual swap another way though. If you're not yet aware, the motor and Trans ECU's are a mated pair. By design, they commit suicide when a non matching TCU or ECU are attempted to be mated to either of them. I'm not sure how you're going to get around that if you attempt to access control of either without access to some rather expensive Mercedes coding hardware/software - plus some Mercedes engineering advice. But just be aware before you start attempting modding either of them. Would hate to see you going through the expensive process of killing ECU's and TCU's through trial and error.
You can of course go the Megasquirt route and control the engine and trans that way, but you'll then have to figure out a way to bypass the data read by the SBC and ride height systems - and obviously have to deal with all the fault messages that will be present on your Dash warning LCD's.
I'm looking forward to continuing to follow your project! Luv these vids!!
Still not done!!
BEST OF LUCK ON THE JOURNEY ! il be hear !
Go for it man and good luck on the project.
Can't wait to see this bad boy! Love your vision.
The quality of these videos is getting very good !
Wow this project surprised me. I love how your building basically what you define as the perfect car. I hope everything works out. I'll be with you all the way😎
Look for the KW DDC suspension. It’s fully customizable (for a comfortable soft to a sporty and stiff feel) with your phone. Costs like the OEM suspension from Mercedes. :)
It's going to be rough, but I think it can be done. This is the kind of job that takes limitless motivation to push forward so I hope you can manage. Good luck man, if I were you I'd switch out the drive train computers rather than fighting with Mercedes.
good luck, this is exactly what these cars need!
Love what you are doing with the car. I watch all the videos. Just bought mine, can't wait to see how it comes out.
As a former Mercedes Benz tech, I would LOVE to see this. Subscribed.
Yes I think you did amazing job with your car I learn so much from this build is crazy thank you
This thing stripped down with some stiff suspension and a strong tune would be sick! The side exhaust idea is pretty cool too.
I hope it works. Looking forward to that conversion.
I absolutely love your videos on this Benz. It's going to be very interesting to see a manual conversion on this beast. Good luck with the conversion! As a tip, you should replace the supercharger pulley bearing, as they always fail on the M113K motors and make a loud annoying grind at startup.
Mercedes-Benz SL Burp Special - Best of luck with this SL project. Hopefully it's not going to be too difficult.
good luck young sir. big project but it's a project for a reason and headaches are part of it, keep it up Tavarish 👌
I vote kw variant 3s for your suspension. Also, check out Astro Performance Transmission, they build racing stuff out of Eustice. They did a good job on mine. If you pull this off you have a marketable product practically with that conversion.
Good luck with this. Definitely would like to see it as a manual with headers, exhaust, smaller pulley and tune (eurocharger, renntech, etc.)
Let's hope you can get that Manual in , Wow