88 Nova

[ILJustinw]

I have not been here for a LONG time. Matter of fact the forum is completely different and I forget my user name.


With that being said, I am looking at swapping a 5 speed in to my 88nova out of a Corolla or Nova.
Is there any project logs you guys know of where this was done?
Any specific things I will need that I can not get off the other car?
Is 40mpg with a 5 speed swap and a fresh rebuild out of the picture?

[ILJustinw]

I also realize my engine is a 4A-GE so if this needs moved to a different area please move it to the appropriate area.

Also this car's SPECIFIC and ONLY purpose is fuel economy, if you have any specific tips PLEASE share!

[SidewaysGts]

Im aware of the oddball 4age novas, but unaware of the difficulties in doing a 5 speed conversion on them specifically, but TYPICALLY youll need a flywheel/clutch, transmission (dur), transmission bracket, proper pedals, clutch master (Some cars will already have the location ready to go to install these things, others might need drilling/tapping/finagling), clutch slave, plumbing for them, etc. If i remember right your car is essentially a rebadged ae82, so those might be a good place to start looking.

As for getting 40 mpg? Going to have to say fairly unlikely sadly. Low 30s on the highway would be your best bet- without doing some major aero upgrades that is.

[ILJustinw]

thanks sideways,

I know these came with the manual and automatic so I am hoping it will all be set up and I won't have to do much modification. I found another Nova with the 5 speed in it and dude wants $500 complete so I am just going to buy that and transfer parts. I would just use that car but my car has some sentimental value(more then the car is worth itself lol), so I want to use it as my platform.


I am sure I will have plenty more questions.

[carbd7age]

My father in law has an 86 Nova 5-speed 4AC in the driveway that hasn't moved in a decade. It needs a blacktop swap....

[ga_goosh]

I would say get all your parts from an 88 - 89 corolla gts and i am willing to bet it will just fall together like it was actually a corolla.

[ILJustinw]

Just went out and started working on her, I forgot this is actually a 4A-LC. How much difference besides SOHC/DOHC is there? Someone on here has a 4a-ge near me for $300 so I was thinking of just swapping them out. Is it possible without much headache? will start searching forums also

[SidewaysGts]

The trans should bolt to one or the other all the same. As for the 4ac to 4age, ive done the swap in a rolla, but its relatively straight forward. But you need all the appropriate parts. Keep in mind youll need the engine/body harness, fuel pump, etc. Theres a small handfull of electronics that go along with the conversion.