BTW autos came with 4.62 gears and man's came
with 5.13s, unless you got a California model with
4.30 gears

Are you sure on this for the X90's?

I was reading on: http://x90.zukiweb.com/faqs.htm#general1

"Q: What were the model differences?

A: Throughout its three year run, the X-90 remained virtually unchanged. All had the 1.6L 16v 4 cylinder (the same found in the Sidekick), 4.62 gears in the diffs on both Auto and Manual models, and Auto locking hubs (4WD models). 4WD was available on both Auto and Manual models and T-Tops were standard for all years and models. Power accessories were also standard across the board, while top of the line 4WD models got remote door locks and a factory alarm system.

The only big difference was the 98s (and possibly some late production 97s) got black leather interior and dark grey interior accents in place of the cloth on ealier models.

Two main wheel styles were available in the US specific to the X-90. The 2WDs models got 3 spoke "swoosh" aluminum wheels with plastic snap in center caps while the 4WD models got sporty looking 5 spoke aluminum wheels. There were various X-90s that came with 8 hole steel wheels similar to those found on the Sidekicks sold at the time."

How do I know for sure when I am swapping?

Thanks,

-Steve

Q: Are they similar to Suzuki Sidekicks/Geo Trackers?

A: Yes, in actuallity, the X-90 is really just a Sidekick with a different body. They share the same frame and running gear with the Sidekick and Tracker as well as the same engine and drivetrain.

If this is true Yes.
Zig has an X90, I guess we should put this
to the test and find out

I don't trust many sources for info, too many
people out there that don't check their facts,
like the Consumers Report that the 16V is a
DOHC (dual overhead cam) which it's not

Wild

Well I am not sure how to tell which gear is which, but I am going to the auction today and there is a 95 Sidekick 4 cyl 5spd for PARTS ONLY, so I hope to get it as my parts car.

When I am swapping I will check this out.

Thanks guys,

-Steve

Keep us posted on the swap, and pictures are always good, I think this would make a great how-to.

Ahh crap I went there, and it was a 2WD w/ the 8v eng.

It LOOKED like the 5spd tranny would bolt up to the 16v eng, but the ecu would be different, and there was no "dummy transfer case" like some suggested so I probably couldnt use the tranny.

The rear drive shaft went right to the transmission and it didn't look like the same connection and placing as where the 4WD transfer case connects to the transmission, so I let it go. ($650 cdn +tax)

On an aside, correct me if I am wrong. I noticed the transmission on the 4WD connects to the transfer case, which has outputs to the front and rear diffs.

SO, if I am swapping just the transmission, I dont really need to change any diffs do I? I mean it wont affect the operation of the 4WD etc because no matter what the gears are, both front and rear get there power from the transfer case so the turn ratios etc will all be the same.

So worst case scenario even if the gears are different in the auto/manual, everything will still work correct? Just a different gear ratio when driving?

Correct me if I am wrong,

On an aside, I went to the wrecker and I found a 96 sidekick 5sp 4x4 and I BELIEVE I found the ECU on the right side of driverside, near the kick panel and fuses. BUT It had a Mitsubushi symbol on the case? 3 connectors, 80 pins or so. Is this right?

Thanks,

-Steve

Yes, Mitsubishi built the EFI computer for the Track/Kicks,
I don't know if all or some are Mitsu, but mine is (89')

Wild

All are Mitsubishi

Zag

Great info, thanks!

What about the diffs? I shouldnt have to swap them right?

-Steve

You don't have to swap diffs if you don't want to but.........

Be sure to swap the speedo drive so your speedo stays accurate

Zag

Good point! Thanks a bundle, starting today.

-Steve

I am contemplating going the other direction on the Goblin. He's running the 5 speed manual with stock 5.12's in the diffs and 33's. I'm running around with a pair of sammys that are locked with gear reductions and slipping the clutch all day long is getting old quick! Plus I figured if I keep the 5.12's and swap in a 3 speed auto, I could add a tranny cooler and just chug along behind them all day long. Sort of like a cheater way to better R&P ratio...

What all would I need to swap a 3 speed auto into it? My ECM should work fine, right? Or would I need the ECM as well as the tranny and shifter? What about driveshaft lengths and t-cases? can I re-use my stockers from the manual or would I need to get the ones from the auto rig?

Well, I will have a mint condition Auto with only 38k on it as well as the ECU and all the parts for sale shortly. Its a 4 spd Auto and the lockup works perfect, making it a 5sp auto lol.

Let me know,

-Steve