Suzuki Sidekick Sport transmission and clutch replacement

A video I threw together documenting the manual transmission R/R on my 1996 sidekick sport.
Transmission is a reman unit from Trail Tough
Clutch is an Exedy performance clutch from Low Range off road.

[@argon5w]

Thanks for taking the time to post this video. I rebuilt my trans earlier this year. The input shaft was in bad shape. I had to replace the input shaft, along with the all the bearings and seals.

[@Z-Bart]

Job well done! Being from MN it's nice to see the underside of a 24 year old vehicle with limited (zero) rust.

[@tiffanykooper6989]

You should see mine. It's rusted to shit

[@shawnmrfixitlee6478]

Looks like you hear what I have , those folks out in Medford have come through for me a couple times now .. I live in Independence oregon , And love the fast no hassle service ! Thumbs up ..

[@edmondor578]

I’m soooo jealous. I’ve wanted a Sport ever since I’ve heard you can swap in a 2.3 and have it pass California emissions. With the added Bob Tupper lift, 4.2 t-case it’s the ultimate 4 door in my opinion. Still need the steel front axle and possibly a braced t-case brackets ( I broke the long one on my 4 door). Great video, I loved watching it. Thank you !

[@IBTJn]

Someday I'd really like to have a large shop with a lift, too! Your son is at a terrific age...learning from Dad how to wheel the right way (including recovery gear) and doing stuff together! You've made that Zuk a really sweet ride. I'm a Jeep guy myself (always have been) but I love having a wheeler that still has decent street manners to just drive around town if I want. It makes it allot more versatile (IMHO) and still very capable offroad. Nice video.

[@MattVerley]

IBTJn thanks! I've always been a bit of a Suzuki guy, but can appreciate any good machine. I'm just beginning to grasp that I only get one shot to raise my son, so I'm trying to seize the opportunities as they come! sometimes it is difficult to get him out into the shop, but a stream of go karts, motorcycles, and radio controlled gear holds his interest. in a couple of years he'll be driving...thinking that cars will start to be a little more important to him then.

[@actthree34]

Loved the video although the time lapse made it look easier than I'm sure it was. Next big job, let's see your son in there helping with the wrenching! 73s

[@MattVerley]

William Large yes, it does look easier than it really is on the video...but a sidekick transmission really is an easy job

[@goose27162]

Yup! I have done a few of them. and yes you can drop it without a tranny jack, just a little muscle!

[@IBMara]

Thank you. Great video.

[@Stormcloakvictory]

With all the work done to that suzuki it seem like a great overland vehicle.

[@carlosnunez8229]

sewerzuk Apologies in advance for the amount of questions, I was hopping you could give me a hand. I'm also modifying my sidekick sport to be more off road worthy, I got a 2,5" body lift kit, a 2,5" suspension lift at the front and a 3" suspension lift at the back along with the 265/75 R16 m/t tires to be installed but I don't know if I'll need some spacers for the tires (I got one for the bar) or if I'll need to hammer the wheel wells, do you happen to know? Also: Do you have a rear locker? Where did you get the red control arms? And the last question, don't you get the center console too heat up by the air that passes by the muffler? Thank you in advance! Greetings from Costa Rica.

[@Wookiemonsterfreak]

Yep! Know that sound! 4th was quite, but now it pops out of 4th on the hwy.

[@abbamtenga2438]

Matt hi. by the way great video and thanks for pointing to where one can buy a new transmission.. I have a Vitara scudo G16b engine on mine. I noticed you pointed out that you did something to improve power on yours and that is what got you into the transmission problem.. I would really love to find out on how I could improve my power band on the four cylinder. Even add a turbo if possible or a super charger.. Are there any out there who custom build modified engines for the Vitara, basically sup them up??

[@alexissalgado7774]

Hi there This month I’ll be puting in my Suzuki Samurai transmission and transfer case from Suzuki sidekick I will keep u posted

[@wesleybickel4640]

I have a 99 tracker, I don't think they changed a thing. Looks identical. My trans makes a quiet howl when the clutch is out. Might have call those guy. Love the lift.

[@kennynvake4hve584]

Nice job...could you please tell me where the back up, or reverse light switch is on an 1995 geo tracker 4wd automatic...I know it's off subject but I thought you would be the one to ask..thanks.

[@AndysAutoCarePlus]

Great video. I will be doing the clutch in mine soon. So if it’s making noise when you let off the clutch like that does that always mean the transmission??

[@MattVerley]

Usually yes, the input shaft bearing starts to go and allows the input shaft to move slightly and messes up the gear mesh. A proper rebuild will normally include a new input shaft.

[@AndysAutoCarePlus]

Matt Verley ok I will have to check into that a bit. I will check with the shop in Medford since there really close anyway. Thanks man.

[@haimperetz3764]

? iwant to use wrc racing shocks what do you think? thankshi mat i want to know if i can use like you in the front with coilovers front and back, without the springs

[@flyingalbert]

I notice you've a twin stick on your T-case. Is that a better neutral in behind RV towing compare with factory single stick setup. Twin stick manufactures calm it is only true neutral after the Twin stick upgraded. Sales pitch?

[@outdoorseyfun9842]

Hi,Matt, I have a 94 suzuki sidekick 4wd and I can't seem to get it any gear without ,just replaced clutch cable but problem only got worse,any help would be awesome.

[@Wookiemonsterfreak]

Oh, what is the tool for the fill and drain bolts? Someone had mine stripped out before I got this thing. I know some people mickeymouse tools up, but I want to avoid that problem with the swap.

[@Pengy8027]

Do you know of any compatibilities that work for the 07 2.7?? I keep going through transmissions and I’m getting to the point I can’t find any anymore

[@JB-sd4qc]

Good good, thanks

[@kurt1810]

I'm really digging your sidekick! I have have sidekick sport as well, unfortunately with the auto trans, currently sourcing out a manual :( I'm just curious what lift kick you're running? it looks like a calmini, but I swear they only made it for the non sports? also, what is up with your transfercase levers? and regarding your j23 swap, how is it for sourcing out quality parts? the j18 is a pain especially in Canada!

[@MattVerley]

Kurtis Sutton thanks! The lift was put together by Bob Tupper from Kreation Fabrication. My sport required a few modifications, but it does work well. It runs fox coilovers in the front. The transfer case has a twin stick kit from Low Range off road. I haven't needed to buy any parts for the j23 yet, but I expect to do some digging if I need anything in the future.

[@kurt1810]

sewerzuk thanks for reply, seems like custom fabrication is very common for the sports! but it seems like more and more upgrades are being made for it. I actually just checked calmini website and they now make 2inch lifts! and this company called Zor now makes bumpers. do you have any knowledge about swapping from the auto to the manual?

[@kurt1810]

sewerzuk thanks for reply, seems like custom fabrication is very common for the sports! but it seems like more and more upgrades are being made for it. I actually just checked calmini website and they now make 2inch lifts! and this company called Zor now makes bumpers. do you have any knowledge about swapping from the auto to the manual?

[@thebanjoman1963]

Is that speedometer correction box inline at 5:51 ? Brand?? How close have you been able to get with the correction with your larger tires?

[@MattVerley]

Yes, that's correct. I had speedometer Service in Portland, OR make it up for me. I just told them the percentage reduction that I needed, and they made the box up for me. My speedometer is exact now; have run all the way up to 100MPH and verified against GPS.

[@fagustinghernandez9893]

asbestos my friend, did you take care of this dust?

[@unclesandcrab]

Were did you get the speedometer cable reduction box

[@nataliehmiller7]

We are looking to replace the clutch on our 96 Suzuki sidekick 4x4. Wanted to know if there are any differences between the installation of the 4x4 and a all wheel drive. Or is the installation the same. Anything that we should know in regards to a 4x4 clutch replacement? Thank you

[@MattVerley]

All Sidekicks are either 4 wheel drive or two wheel drive; there is no separate all wheel drive model. Some did have automatic front hubs instead of manual, but that makes no difference as far as the rest of the drivetrain goes. Either way, the clutch replacement is almost the same for the 4 and 2 wheel drive models. A little easier on the 2 wheel drive because you don't need to deal with the transfer case and front driveshaft, but the procedure is very similar and the parts are the same.

[@AJORyan]

Doing this right now on a 1995 Geo Tracker with about 250,000 miles on it. One problem: whoever put the transmission in last fastened all the bolts on the front of the transmission with industrial strength loctite. FTW.

[@cynthiaabugattas5035]

have you ever assamble or fix 4x4 auto free wheel hub? FOR Vitara? i have one 1.6 3doors 97 mecanic transmition , automatic hub. thanks FOR The reply, i would love a vídeo of hubs

[@DrBroncanuus]

Hi Matt, i've got a '94 Suzuki Vitara fatboy ...but when I try to engage 4 wheel drive it keeps jumping out back into 2 wheel drive...should i replace the transfer box ? thx

[@MattVerley]

Dino Dean hard to tell without seeing it in person, but the problem is most likely in the transfer case. Could be bent shift forks, or maybe the dente ball spring is worn out. Either way, replacing the entire case would probably solve the problem.

[@philipp4109]

Can you put a automatic transmision on a Samurai 1.3 1997?

[@ricknakatsu7396]

I’m having the exact same problem with my 1991 Geo Tracker making bearing noise when clutch is out. How’s your transmission holding up? Do you recommend the Trail Tough transmission?

[@pesil2446]

hi! i have a sidekick jx 2001, where i can buy a transmision and clutch just like yours??

[@abbamtenga2438]

check out this site. www.trailtough.com/products/suzuki-sidekick-tracker-x90-parts/

[@Snillocad143]

How much does the transmission all weigh for a person to lift?

[@varmint223]

Do you know what needs to be done to go from auto to manual transmission? I have a j18 with the ringR adapter Toyota 5 speed in it just wanting to know what wiring needs done

[@DimitrisSfounis]

That dust cloud was mostly rust from the bolts of the flywheel my dude, and vehicles stopped using asbestos in clutch and brake components by 1985.

[@jordynfouracres5273]

What lift kit to do u have in it

[@Muldoonite]

I'm thinking of getting a 95 Sidekick 5spd 4wd w/ 280,000 miles on it. What do you think a reasonable price would be for it and what things should I look out for in particular? Thanks.

[@goose27162]

Reasonable is whatever you can afford that is within your budget. Just keep in mind the upgrades you want to make and how it will be driven. If the deal is too good, then it probably is. But If you are looking for a ragged out shell to rebuild into a monster then the cheaper the better!

[@xXZ31t6esTXx]

Can you tell why the transmission sounds like that?

[@iamthetarget52]

I see you added to the transfer case. Did you change it's fluid as well?It would have been a good time... At least for those of us without a lift.

[@MattVerley]

When you pull the front driveshaft, all of the oil drains out of the tcase whether you want it to or not :) I drained it first, but didn't show that on the video. So, yes the gear oil was changed in the tcase during this project.

[@tjlarsen7700]

@@MattVerleywhat gear oil do you use?

[@TheMakeupWakeup]

Hi there, my husband has a 1994 Suzuki Sidekick that is having clutch problems. Our mechanic said we need to drop the transmission to check the pressure plate, I was curious if you know if that's the right procedure or if we should find a different mechanic? Thanks!

[@brucewmclaughlin9072]

The transmission has to move out of the way to check so either way it has to be unattached .

[@randyhabbal7687]

Question...new subscriber here from all the way from Suriname. I own a sidekick 2wd 1994 wat do i need for a 4wd conversion??any existing videos out there??

[@MattVerley]

Randy Habbal I don't have any videos out on the process. it is usually less expensive to simply sell your 2wd vehicle and just buy a 4wd one. However, if you have access to inexpensive parts and lots of time, you can do the conversion. a quick list of 4wd specific items you will need: Center console, transfer case, transmission front and rear driveshafts, front differential/axle assembly with a matching gear ratio to the rear axle, CV shafts, hubs and knuckle assemblies, and all of the associated bracketry.

[@randyhabbal7687]

sewerzuk thanks for the reply really appreciate it

[@PlayingWithFireOutdoors]

@@MattVerley kzbin.info/www/bejne/bHbLonmmr8aJpbM I'm about to do a conversion on mine. As I'll have it apart, it will be a smart time to pop in a fresh clutch. I managed to snag a 4x4 version that was cut apart for the motor and rear frame assy. When I saw you shoving the motor around, you confirmed I can do it. It will be a pain but it can be done.

[@elmaragustin2010]

Please also for Automatic Transmission overhaul of Suzuki Vitara 2001

[@user-hx2hz1pp5q]

very Good:-)

[@aussiefarquit125]

Hey mate has that thing got a dual tcase

[@taniadominguez9194]

I had a sidekick and ti grave so much truble with the transmisión and the clutch cable broke every 3 months

[@kasipamfik7299]

good mantap...

[@justinhall4588]

Is that twinnsticks or duals

[@wolfsburg4x4]

How is the transmission holding up after these years ? Thanks

[@MattVerley]

I don't own it anymore...but I belive the current owner said it is making some noise and he plans to replace it with another reman one soon. I did put a LOT of hard miles on it.

[@wolfsburg4x4]

@@MattVerley Thanks !

[@TinShackVideos]

90?

[@brucewmclaughlin9072]

I just got rid of my TDi and have lost all my love for VW . These 4x4's are far cheaper to fix and go far more places than any other 4x4's out there. Most are just suv's and too pretty to get a scratch. Curious about the front bumper as to attachment points and cost.??

[@elmaragustin2010]

what is the size of the Rim and tire ? very informative video...2thumbs-up

[@MattVerley]

Elmar Agustin LT265/75R16

[@thebanjoman1963]

Your hair grew back awfully fast between firing it up after the job and the test drive....

[@MattVerley]

It cracks me up, the number of comments I get on my hair in my videos! But yes, the footage from the trip is a couple of weeks after I did the tranny swap. My "actual" test drive footage didn't turn out all that exciting, so I used a few clips from the trip instead.

[@biopsiesbeanieboos55]

You skipped over the part where you wrestle with that one bolt at the top of the bell housing.

[@jennifernicholas523]

You made that transmission seem light, but I'm sure it's not.

[@rashidnaga]

why top gear hate this car?

[@santehnikable]

Заебись чё !

[@shum_ok]

Здравствуйте. Возможно сделать субтитры на русском?

[@butchtropic8455]

Sounds good? What's that squealing sound?

[@carlosnunez8229]

sewerzuk Apologies in advance for the amount of questions, I was hopping you could give me a hand. I'm also modifying my sidekick sport to be more off road worthy, I got a 2,5" body lift kit, a 2,5" suspension lift at the front and a 3" suspension lift at the back along with the 265/75 R16 m/t tires to be installed by I don't know if I'll need some spacers for the tires (I got one for the bar) or if I'll need to hammer the wheel wells, do you happen to know? Also: Do you have a rear locker? Where did you get the red control arms? And the last question, don't you get the center console too heat up by the air that passes by the muffler? Thank you in advance! Greetings from Costa Rica.

[@MattVerley]

Hi Carlos, As far as the tire fitment goes I think that they will fit with some minor fender trimming/massaging. Yes, I have a lock-rite in the rear axle. The suspension system was custom built by Kreation Fabrication www.kreationfab.com and consists of custom control arms, and fox coilover shocks. I don't seem to have a problem with excessive heat in the console, however I live in a fairly cold and wet climate. Much colder than Costa Rica!

[@carlosnunez8229]

Thanks a lot for the answer sewerzuk! About the locker: Have you ever had issues while driving on wet pavement roads? By issues I mean having the diff auto locked because of the spinning of the tire (some people told me this can happen and safety could be compromised but I'm not sure if it happens often). About the suspension system: Great to know, thanks a lot! About the muffler: Then this heat actually works in your favor! I'll have to do some isolation job and see how it works...

[@MattVerley]

Carlos Núñez no problems with wet pavement. When the roads get icy, I do need to be careful about how I drive because the locker can cause the rear tires to break loose unexpectedly. I have owned around 20 vehicles with different kinds of lockers; including automatic ones like the lock rite, grizzly, and Detroit, limited slips, and selectable lockers including the Auburn Ected, an Ox locker, several ARB air lockers, and Toyota E-lockers. I've even run a few street vehicles with full spools. The automatic lockers change the way the vehicle drives, and take some getting used to. Even if you drive carefully, The locker engages and disengages around corners with pops and bangs and it tends to jerk the vehicle one direction or another. If you can afford it, a selectable locker is MUCH nicer. I am planning a Ford 9" axle with air locker swap into my sidekick sometime soon...

[@carlosnunez8229]

sewerzuk I've done some research and Air lockers seamed as the way to go, but I'm completely sure now that you confirmed it. Does this Ford axle you mentioned come with the air locker from the factory already? In which Ford model could it be found?

[@MattVerley]

Carlos Núñez the the Ford 9 inch is a very common axle here in the United States. They usually come with open differential, but because they are so popular there are lots of options for gear ratios, axle widths and locking differentials. They can easily be found with a 5x5.5 lug bolt pattern too. I'm not sure how easy they would be to find in Costa Rica.