Okay, here’s my experience with the Lexus RC manual transmission:
So, I’ve always been a “save the manuals” kind of guy. When I heard rumors that the Lexus RC might have a manual option, I got pretty hyped. I did some digging. Turned out to be trickier than I thought!
The Hunt Begins
First, I went to a couple of Lexus dealerships. I got my hands on a few RCs, automatic ones, and found out I liked the feel. But those paddle shifters just weren’t cutting it. I asked around for a standard trans but the salemen told me that there wasn’t one. So that was a dead end.
Digging Deeper
I hit the online forums next, you know, the usual spots where car enthusiasts hang out. I spent hours scrolling through threads, reading comments, and asking questions. Turns out, a true, factory-made RC with a manual transmission is basically a unicorn. It was only available in other countries.
I got the manual. Found out it was mostly the same as other Lexus models, the IS mostly. So I got my hands on one of those.
Experiment
Started with taking out the seats, it was pretty tough. The wires underneath were a pain.
Took apart the center console. Found out I needed to pull the shifter, cut a hole for the new one, and fit a new boot. Not too tough, just took a while.
- Things I messed with:
- Pulled out the automatic shifter.
- Got the clutch pedal in. Had to bolt that to the firewall.
- Ran the hydraulic lines for the clutch master cylinder.
- Swapped out the transmission itself. Biggest pain, honestly.
- Wired up the new sensors and stuff for the manual.
The Payoff
Finally got it to work. It’s my own special Lexus now, got my hands dirty and that’s what matters. Wish it was easier but that’s just how these things go.
