Transmission Swap! What parts do i need?
The single most common question we get is:
"I want to do a transmission swap, can you give me a complete list of parts that I need?"
If you are ready to commit to do a transmission swap in your vehicle there are a few considerations to make. It usually comes down to what transmissions models are availalbe in your region, does the transmission require you to modify your transmission tunnel or any other physical properties that might be an issue.
1. Choose your transmission model
In this text we will mostly speak about 8HP transmissions, mainly because its the most popular swap out there right now and also because the 8HP Transmission has without a doubt the most variants to consider.
There are numerous OEMs that has the 8HP transmission in their drivelines. We make kits for transmissions from BMW, Dodge, Jeep, Jaguar, Land Rover and Alfa Romeo at the moment.
The 8HP comes in a wide range of torque ratings, everything between 8HP45 and 8HP95 where the last two digits is the torque rating, ie. 45 is 450Nm and 95 is 950Nm respectively. There are also currently three generations available of the 8HP, more of that later.
There are a few generalizations you can make, lower torque ratings like the 8HP45 has an smaller bellhousing profile and also an overall smaller body compared to an 8HP70 or 8HP90.
There is also a ton of different torque converter mounting variants, normally you dont need to consider this as we have adapted our Adapter Kit design to always work with the corresponding converter style.
For reference in lengths, size and bellhousing design we recommend you to take a look at our tech pages:
Transmission technical information
BMW 8HP Transmission Identification
Dodge 8HP Transmission Identification
When it comes to DCT transmissions there are basically only four options to choose from; 335i N55 from E-series, M3/M4 S55 from F-series, M3 S65 from E-series and M5/M6 S63 from F-series. The main thing to consider here is the bellhousing size where the 335i and M3/M4 from F-series is the smallest and M5/M6 S63 is the largest.
2. Choose your Engine/Transmission Adapter Kit
When you have decided on which transmission to get, browse to our Adapter Kit page and find your engine.
All of our kits are more or less complete kits, comes with everything required to mount the transmission to your engine.
We also recommend to read more under each respective kit.
3. Choose your Transfer Case Adapter Kit
We offer numerous Transfer Case Adapter Kits, this is when you want to adopt a vehicle specific transfer case to the 8HP Transmission.
All of our kits are more or less complete kits, comes with everything required to mount the transmission to your engine.
We also recommend to read more under each respective kit.
4. Oil cooling parts
These transmissions requires active oil cooling.
We always recommend to get the Oil Cooler Adapter as a minimum when building the oil cooling lines.
For the 8HP we also offer Oil Cooling Solutions Kit which is complete kits with radiator, hoses, fittings, oil cooler adapter and even a oil thermostat if required.
We do recommend getting an oil thermostat as this makes the oil getting to working temperature faster.
5. Transmission controller
For 8HP and DCT transmissions you have basically three options to choose from and that we recommend:
- CANFormance CANTCU
- TurboLamik (only 8HP)
- MaxxECU
CANFormance CANTCU, controls the original TCU firmware through a CAN-Bus gateway utilizing all the OEM functionality. Very easy to setup and get up and running in no time, doesnt require any addtional tuning of the transmission. Supports Gen1 and Gen2, Gen3 is currently in development.
TurboLamik, gives you direct solenoid control giving 100% control of the transmission. Requires internal modification and also requires some tuning of the transmission control. Features functionality such as transbrake and clutch by wire. Supports Gen1 and Gen2. Gen3 not supported!
MaxxECU, controls the original TCU with a custom developed firmware through a CAN-bus gateway utilizing all the OEM functionality and some extra own developed features such as transbrake, clutch bump etc. Requires the original TCU to be flashed with custom MaxxECU Firmware. Supports Gen1 Transmissions only!
We can write an essay about each and one of them and its more of a personal preference of what to use, we recommend you to make your own opinion about each and one of them and you can always ask us if there is specific questions.
6. Transmission controller wiring and accessories
For each and every option in section 4 we offer different wiring solutions. From ready PNP solutions to flying leads.
There are also accessories especially for TurboLamik like an LCD Display to see error codes and which map you are currently using or a Rotary knob to choose a different driving mode.
CAN Keypads can be used with all three options in section 4.
7. Crossmember support bracket and crossmembers
We offer FlexMounts (transmission support brackets) for most 8HP on the market, these are designed to work with 8HP/DCT OEM rubber cushions. The FlexMounts are adjustable to make it easier to find correct angle of the output flange without rebuilding your support bracket or crossmember.
For some vehicle applications we also have unique crossmembers which are bolt on. For example our Supra MKIV Vehicle Kit is a full kit including both Engine/Transmission Adapter kit and also a full crossmember assembly which is a direct fit in the Supra chassi.
8. AWD to RWD and output flange
If you want to run a RWD setup but have trouble in only finding AWD transmissions (which normally is also cheaper compared to RWD) we offer a range of AWD to RWD conversion kits, with multiple options for mounting your propshaft. These are availabe for both BMW and Dodge transmissions.
Depending on what type of propshaft you intend to use we offer numerous solutions for 8HP and DCT transmissions.
We have adapters that converts the 3-point flange to a 1350 Yoke pattern or a CV-joint pattern.
We also offers billet output flange replacement parts, where the existing 3-point flange is removed and a new flange with 1350 Yoke and Supra propshaft is installed.
9. Billet Oil Pan
The Billet Oil Pan is definitely an optional part but if you want a part thats a lot tougher than the original plastic pan this is a good option. Can also be equipped with an external temp/pressure sensor for extra control.
10. Shifters
There are basically three options to choose from when it comes to shifting, either with Paddle Shifters, sequential style shifters like DCT Shifter or an OEM shifter. Paddle Shifters and sequential styled shifter can be combined if you want to alternate.
For our Paddle Shifters we have back plates that can be sandwiched with most aftermarket steering wheels for an easy integration.
For OEM Shifter we have some options where you can integrate it with your existing transmission tunnel mounting like the Supra MKIV.
11. Internal upgraded and rebuild parts
We offer complete internal rebuild parts together with internally upgraded parts if you plan to go beyond the limits of the transmission in its original state.
We always recommend to contact us first so we can guide you to the parts you need.
Last updated: 2025-03-15