fairmont ea trans? - Ford Forums - Mustang Forum, Ford Trucks, Ford Focus and Ford Cars

04-10-2003, 14:58

Can anyone tell me if it possible to put an ea 3 speed trans
into a fairmont ea that is already fitted with a 4 speed trans?
If I do will I have to change the computer with it? Any advice would be great as I was given the fairmont but the 4 speeds had it even though it was recod 6 months ago and I already have
an ea gl with a good 3 speed trans but its motors had it!
any advice?

SilverEA · 04-10-2003, 15:36

the 3 sp doesn't need a computer. It's still the old mechanical (or whatever!) design, not electronic like the 4sp. Just take out the computer for the 4 sp and it should be all good. You might have to put in the computer from the gl if you still have problems, as long as they're both MPI cars. It is actually cheaper to put a 3sp in place of a 4sp istead of straight replacement i have heard. If you go and ask a tranny place for their idea's on changing trannys, they will be able to tell you what has to be done. That's what I believe to be true on this topic, others on here may know more...

04-11-2003, 16:48

thanks for the advice, will give it a go!

mongrelEB · 04-11-2003, 19:46

personally I dunno why you'd want the 3-speed, but anyway...
Yeah you should be able to plug straight in, but check the wire positions in the plugs for the box loom - they may be different, the pins can be easily removed and reinserted so this is not a problem.

If the car won't start, you might have to earth the starter relay - there will be a double wire coming out, either orange/black or red/blue. Just earth this on the relay side - bypasses the park inhibitor switch.

Sundeep · 04-12-2003, 03:36

If you're in Melbourne I have a good 4 speed for sale for $250. That's a pretty good price for a 4 speed and it will probably be heaps easier to install.

Sundeep