So I've seen threads all over the place about swapping a 6-speed manual from an STi into a WRX, but can't find anything about the nonturbo models.

 

I've got an 02 Impreza 5 speed that's starting to have a little bit of whine from the differential. Nothing serious right now but it's going to need attention at some point. I'm thinking... if I'm going to have the tranny out anyway, why not swap in a 6-speed for a little better mileage and quieter cruise on the highway?  I can pick up a 6-speed from a 2012 Impreza 2.0 for pretty cheap, and if that wouldn't fit there's always the 6-speed from the 2010+ Outback/Legacy.

 

Anyone ever try swapping one of these in? I understand the 2012+ Impreza uses a cable shifter linkage, so I guess I'd have to mess around with that too. 

 

Thoughts?

All of the split case 6 speeds transmissions use shifter cables. That's one hurdle, along with not having a physical speed sensor which is the biggest. I believe, I'm not 100% sure though, that the split case 6mt and the 5mt are the same overall length so your existing driveshaft should work fine. They use the same style axles as the 05-07 imprezas, so you would need 05-07 impreza axles for your body type. Wagons and sedans of this era have different track widths, and the axles are different accordingly.

Better check those ratios.  Most 6 speeds are close ratio transmissions where the 5 speeds are wide ratio.  You could be in for a disappointment with the 6 speed.

2012 Impreza is 5spd. The legacy had a 6 speed for a while

First off, none of the transmissions listed will fit. 2010 and newer Legacy/Outback 6mt used shifter cables instead of linkages. Have replaced a few sets now. They also have the engine mounts on the sides of the transmission bellhousing, instead of under the engine.

2012 and newer run the FA/FB engine which I believe also runs a different bellhousing but I have yet to really dive into those yet.

 

Your best option would be a JDM NONDCCD 6mt from the same era as your car. They should be the proper stub shaft type for your axles to work. You will also need the clutch hydraulics, clutch kit and flywheel, shifterm and linkages, driveline and probably a rear diff.

Thanks for the input.

 

Really seems like it isn't worth the trouble, so it looks like it'll be another 5 speed when the time comes.

 

On a side note, what year/model transmissions fit the 2002? Hollander says it has to be from a GD body style but I've heard otherwise.

95 or 96 and newer transmissions have the mount bosses for the clutch slave cylinder, one of those would be needed. You'd just have to match the final drive ratio, and swap speed sensors.

I would stay away from the pre 99 5-speeds. They fit in the same spot as the original but the internals aren't nearly as good as the phase 2. Also, 99-02 Forester 5 speeds seem to have issues in the tailshaft housing more often then the others but they can all make noise if they're not serviced. If you decide to go to a 2005 transmission, the axle designs changed and yes you can swap axles to the newer style or add in the stub shafts in the transmission but it's a lot of extra work.

Will a pre 99 to 99 legacy 6 speed swap into my 99 forester L tho? I really just want the final drive for interstate. Also decent low gearing for offroad. I've been told I also just need to swap speed sensors but Is the length different? Will I need a different drive shaft?