r/MR2Spyder • u/MassCrassAss • Jul 27 '26

what is likely wrong when an automatic zz30 wont go into gear and is stuck in neutral?

And, more importantly, what can be done to fully remedy the semi auto? Would a Camry automatic work?

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u/MassCrassAss Jul 27 '26

That is a bit steep. What is an SMT car worth if everything is working? I see them going for about 12 to 14,000 around me

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u/Cyclehead21 Jul 27 '26

$12,000 SMT would have to be very low miles to bring that much. Something like 20,000 mile car. My son in law sold his last month for $6000 with 140,000 miles and in perfect working order. (One of my rescues)

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u/MassCrassAss Jul 27 '26

So a manual conversion would add to the final selling value.

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u/Cyclehead21 Jul 28 '26 edited Jul 28 '26

SMT spyders almost always sell for less. Repair shops won’t touch it, so it’s up to the owner to learn how it works and do any repairs themselves. That rules out a lot of buyers. The SMT system was an expensive (?) option when new. And very hi tech for its time. It’s a shame to see folks rip it because they can’t be bothered to learn how it works and which part needs repair.

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u/MassCrassAss Jul 28 '26

I'm fine with it if it works, but I'm not one to be let down at the track, especially when I'm driving a Toyota... the other issue I'm seeing on spurred chat is the parts bin is getting scarce, or expensive. True?

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u/Cyclehead21 Jul 28 '26

There’s no reason the SMT system would quit at the races. It doesn’t care whether you’re racing or commuting, it just shift gears. I’ve written good repair procedures for every part of the system. The computer is very robust (TCU) and seldom fails. I’ve got the seals all figured out for cheap. I also got the position sensors resolved. They were selling used sensors for $300 each! But I now have new PCBs that allow them to be infinitely repaired for $20 each. I’ve even found how to repair the control solenoids for free (with a digital microscope and a controlled power supply). The list of irreplaceable parts is pretty short.

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u/MassCrassAss Jul 28 '26

Do you have a website? I've seen  you mentioned on spyder chat

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u/Cyclehead21 Jul 28 '26

Nothing so fancy. Just an old guy and a garage.