2004 Honda Civic SI

Building cars for how long:
6 years

Favorite kicks:
Black Nike Dunk SBs

Dream car:
NSX-R

Build inspiration:
It's just a fun hobby

Can't miss TV:
Calgary Flames hockey

Auto-To-Manual Conversions
For the most part, automatic transmissions suck. But for the elderly, those who like to eat tacos while sitting in traffic, and those who never quite figured out the whole clutch engagement thing, they don't suck. For everyone else, it's five or six manually operated gears or nothing. Consider the facts: manual transmissions can yield better gas mileage, are typically more stout than automatics, give drivers better control over engine speed, and provide a more hands-on approach to driving. If performance is a concern, do the swap and never look back. Fortunately, converting most late-model Civics, Integras, Accords, and Preludes to manual-transmission status is a relatively bolt-on affair. Besides the transmission, make sure to get the proper ECU, pedal assembly, mounts and brackets, shifter assembly (linkage or cables), clutch master cylinder and slave cylinder (if applicable), clutch and flywheel, clutch cable or hydraulic assembly, and gauge cluster. Thanks to companies like Hasport and Rywire, conversions have never been easier.