Mark R.

There's a very rough project S4 that I've been considering purchasing.
It's a five speed, but the VIN decoder lists it with an A28.12 transmission.
So I'm pretty much assuming that the decoder is just in error in this case.
But now I'm also wondering if by chance it was converted at some point.
Is there anything I can visually look for that would help confirm this?
I would really like to rule this out somehow, if possible.
The option code sticker in the rear hatch is missing...
I didn't see any PRNDL indicator on the gauge cluster...
Anyone have any ideas or suggestions..?

FredR

The differences I am aware of are that the conversion requires the installation of the plate that carries the clutch release mechanism in the footwell [there may be residual signs of welding ] and the automatic chassis transmission tunnel is shaped differently [a bit wider] to accommodate the auto transaxle that would not fit in a manual variant chassis - whether that is visually obvious not so sure.

The visual display unit could be changed over so that is not a reliable indicator.

Rgds

Fred

Kiln_Red

Look for modifications at the firewall where it would be necessary to accommodate the master cylinder.

Dave928S

Check your engine number. An original auto car with that transmission should have an M28.42 motor, but if it was always a manual it should have an M28.41 ... assuming the motor wasn't also changed.

Mark R.

So are you saying there's actually a different car body for manual and auto?
I didn't realize that. I would think that should be pretty easy to spot from underneath.

Mark R.

Yes. I was planning to look closer for any cuts/welds that don't appear original.

Mark R.

Ahh, yes. Good point. I will definitely check for that.
Interestingly, the VIN decoder also says it came with an M28.42.
It's impossible to know for sure if the motor was also changed.
But it will at least be one more data point, either way...

FredR

The automatics are not equipped with the plate that holds the clutch hydraulics. As I remember you have to view this/install it from the footwell side of the lower firewall. If you can get to this you might see signs that indicate it was fitted post factory [new paint/slightly different shade or non at all etc].

If you do a search of Rennlist you may find a photo of the auto chassis that has a different transmission tunnel configuration needed to accomodate the wider profile. Not exactly sure of where the difference is but presumably [?] would be most noticeable around where the torque converter sits.

Rgds

Fred

Dave928S

The data will always show the motor to match the transmission it lists ... I've never seen a data mix up showing the wrong motor to go with a transmission.

If it really was originally an auto, and is a conversion, then you should still see that auto motor number, assuming they didn't also change the motor.

+ what Fred said.

Mark R.

...

Mark R.

OK. Thanks. All good suggestions, and some good areas to check.
What about any items related to the electrical function, like harness or CE panel..?
I'm envisioning things that control the reverse lights, or the starter lock out, etc.
The main wiring harness surely must be different between the two configurations.
So would there be any unused electrical connectors I might find taped back?
Or, conversely, any extra/added wires I might find routed outside the harness?

michaelathome

I am not too familiar with 928 manuals transmission cars but an auto will have a cooler and all of the hardlines running to the front of the car. Do manuals have the cooler as well?

FredR

The GTS manual has a cooler but earlier models do not. Therein lies another potential clue- the auto transmission models have a smaller a/c condenser so that the auto tranny cooler sits above the condenser whereas the manual has a larger a/c condenser filling that void. That could also be changed out but it is not necessary to do so.

Rgds

Fred

Imo000

Check the gauge cluster for the auto gear selector lights. It's an expensive part to swap and some left them as is after the conversion. The neutral relay jumper in the CE panel might not be a factory part either (OE is a copper stamped strip shaped like a "Z".

Mark R.

Yes! That's a really good one, Fred (and Michael).
I will definitely check for the smaller a/c condenser.
Thanks!