1987 Toyota Truck Swap Manual for Automatic Transmission

The 1987 Toyota Truck manual to automatic transmission swap involves replacing the factory manual transmission with an automatic transmission system. This conversion requires specific components, tools, and technical knowledge to ensure proper installation and functionality. Below are key sections covering preparation, required parts, step-by-step procedure, wiring modifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Required Parts and Tools 2. Pre-Installation Preparation 3. Removal of Manual Transmission 4. Automatic Transmission Installation 5. Torque Converter and Flexplate 6. Shift Linkage and Cables 7. Wiring and Electrical Modifications 8. Transmission Cooler Installation 9. Fluid and Final Checks 10. Testing and Troubleshooting

Required Parts and Tools

Essential components for the manual to automatic transmission swap in 1987 Toyota Truck.

Component	Description
Automatic Transmission	A40/A43D/A340E compatible with 1987 Toyota Truck
Torque Converter	Matching torque converter for selected automatic transmission
Flexplate	Automatic transmission flexplate (flywheel replacement)
Transmission Crossmember	Automatic transmission specific crossmember
Shift Lever and Cable	Automatic transmission shift assembly
Transmission Cooler Lines	Factory or aftermarket transmission cooler lines
Drive Shaft	Automatic transmission compatible drive shaft
Neutral Safety Switch	Automatic transmission safety switch wiring
Transmission Fluid	ATF Type F or Dexron II
Transmission Pan Gasket	Automatic transmission pan seal

Pre-Installation Preparation

Proper preparation ensures smooth transmission swap process.

Disconnect battery: Remove negative battery cable for safety.
Drain fluids: Drain manual transmission fluid and engine oil if necessary.
Gather tools: Jack stands, transmission jack, socket set, torque wrench.
Clean work area: Ensure clean, well-lit workspace with adequate clearance.

WARNING! Transmission is heavy; use proper lifting equipment and safety gear. Ensure vehicle is securely supported on jack stands.

Removal of Manual Transmission

Step-by-step removal of factory manual transmission.

Remove drive shaft: Unbolt and slide drive shaft from transmission.
Disconnect linkages: Remove clutch cable and shift lever connections.
Disconnect wiring: Remove backup light switch and speedometer cable.
Support engine: Use engine support bar or jack with wood block.
Remove crossmember: Unbolt transmission crossmember.
Lower transmission: Use transmission jack to lower and remove manual transmission.
Remove clutch components: Remove clutch disc, pressure plate, and throwout bearing.

CAUTION! Manual transmission is heavy; use proper lifting techniques and equipment.

Automatic Transmission Installation

Installation of automatic transmission system.

Transmission Compatibility: A40/A43D/A340E series automatic transmissions.
Bellhousing Pattern: Matches 22R/22RE engine block.
Mounting Points: Use automatic transmission specific mounts.
Drive Shaft Length: Automatic transmission requires shorter drive shaft.
Cooler Connections: Factory transmission cooler ports on radiator.
Fluid Capacity: Approximately 6-8 quarts ATF.
Torque Specifications: Bellhousing bolts: 45-55 ft-lbs.
Clearance Requirements: Check firewall and floor pan clearance.

Torque Converter and Flexplate

Proper installation of torque converter and flexplate assembly.

Flexplate: Replace manual flywheel with automatic flexplate. Torque bolts to 55-65 ft-lbs in crisscross pattern.

Torque Converter: Ensure converter is fully seated in transmission. Measure distance from bellhousing mounting surface - should be approximately 1 inch.

Converter Bolts: Install through flexplate access cover. Torque to 25-35 ft-lbs.

Shift Linkage and Cables

Installation of automatic transmission shift mechanism.

Install shift lever: Replace manual shift lever with automatic version.
Connect shift cable: Route cable from shift lever to transmission.
Adjust linkage: Ensure proper Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive positions.
Install kickdown cable: Connect throttle valve (TV) cable to throttle linkage.

Tip: Proper TV cable adjustment is critical for transmission longevity and shift quality.

Wiring and Electrical Modifications

Electrical system modifications for automatic transmission operation.

Neutral safety switch: Install and wire neutral safety switch to starter circuit.
Backup lights: Connect backup light switch on transmission.
Speedometer: Adapt speedometer cable or install electronic speed sensor.
Instrument cluster: Modify or replace with automatic transmission indicator.
ECU considerations: 22RE models may require ECU modification for automatic operation.

WARNING! Incorrect wiring can cause starting issues or transmission damage. Follow wiring diagrams carefully.

Transmission Cooler Installation

Proper cooling system setup for automatic transmission.

Use factory radiator cooler connections. Aftermarket cooler recommended for towing or heavy use. Install cooler lines with proper fittings. Route lines away from exhaust components.

Fluid and Final Checks

Final installation steps and fluid filling procedure.

Install drive shaft: Ensure proper U-joint alignment and bolt torque.
Fill transmission: Add ATF through dipstick tube.
Check levels: Start engine, cycle through gears, check fluid level.
Test operation: Verify proper shifting and neutral safety function.
Check for leaks: Inspect all connections and seals.

CAUTION! Do not overfill transmission. Check fluid with engine running at operating temperature.

Testing and Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No start in Park/Neutral	Neutral safety switch	Adjust or replace neutral safety switch; check wiring.
Harsh shifting	TV cable adjustment	Adjust throttle valve cable per factory specifications.
Transmission slips	Low fluid level	Check and fill transmission fluid; inspect for leaks.
No drive engagement	Linkage adjustment	Readjust shift linkage; check fluid level and condition.
Overheating	Cooler flow restriction	Check cooler lines for kinks; flush cooling system.

Final Inspection: Test drive to verify proper operation in all gears.

Technical Support: Consult factory service manual or Toyota specialist for complex issues.