Piston Slap: Justy-fied Freestylin' Over CVTs, Part III

Frank writes:

Good morning,

I am planning a transmission swap in my 2006 five hundred from a 2WD CVT to the offered 6speed of the same vintage. So far as I have discerned, I will need the trans, flywheel, axleshafts, computer and harness. A few compatibility questions though, trans mounts? speedo cable? Shifter and/or linkage? How about the PCM that controls the trans. They offer a few different ones, specifically:

• ID 5G1A-AJA
• ID 5G1A-APA-APB
• ID 6G1A-MB-MC

How about any sensors on the engine? Will the computer have to be flashed to my vehicle? I would like a clear understanding as to which is the correct PCM for this application and why before I start amassing parts for the switch. I would like to put together a package deal for better pricing from the local yard if possible.

Thanks for your insight and I would like to do this as soon as possible.

Sajeev answers:

Does this mean people are crazy enough to actually follow my advice? Damn son, this is a little unsettling: compounded with the chance you’re better off buying a regular Ford Five Hundred without the dreaded CVT! Time value of money, you know.

But, to answer many of your questions, see the link in the above paragraph. And since Piston Slap will never replace a proper model-specific forum, a few quick answers to what remains.

1. A few compatibility questions though, trans mounts?

No clue, cross-reference parts at the Ford dealer or on the forum.

2. Speedo cable? Shifter and/or linkage?

See #1.

3. How about the PCM that controls the trans?

Get the PCM that came with the donor car. You might still need a re-flash by an SCT-savvy tuner, but nobody will know that unless they’ve already done the swap.

4. How about any sensors on the engine?

Having been around Ford engine controls since the bizarre EEC-III system, I seriously, seriously doubt this is a problem. Engine sensors are not unique; pop the hood of a V12 powered (i.e. two of your motors welded together) Aston Martin and you’ll see what I mean.

5. Will the computer have to be flashed to my vehicle?

See #3.

Best of luck with the conversion! We want to hear the conclusion!

Send your queries to sajeev@thetruthaboutcars.com. Spare no details and ask for a speedy resolution if you’re in a hurry.