Ford Repair: Converting from manual to auto transmission, cv shafts, ford tempo

Question
Hi Steve,
I recently purchased a 'work' car, a 1993 Ford Tempo with a 5 speed manual transmission. It seems to be running fine but I think I may be needing a clutch and/or tranni soon since I sometimes get a 'herky-jerky' ride when I remove my foot from the gas pedal. My question is: How much is involved to convert this car to an automatic transmission? I am thinking if I do get to the point where I need a clutch or tranni, I would consider going to an automatic, since no one else in my house wants to drive a car with manual transmission. I know it would involve getting a radiator and a different floor shifter,in addition to the auto tranni, but would it involve much more than that? I'm specifically concerned about the mounting to the engine. Would all that line up ok? also, would I have to change the cv shafts or any other front end parts?
Thanks for your thoughts/expertise on this matter.

Kevin

Answer
Kevin-

  My knowledge of front wheel drive transaxles is admittedly limited, but here's what my experience has been.  The swap should be pretty straight forward if you hook up a non-electronically controlled transmission.  All you'll need is a kickdown linkage or TV linkage in addition to the transmission, shifter, and shifter cable.  If it's an electronically controlled transmission you'll need to swap out the computer and some of the wiring harness for one that will support the transmission.  This is an absolute pain to do.  Some aftermarket companies make stand alone controllers, but they're mostly for V8 oriented transmissions that are rear wheel drive.  You'll probably also have to swap out the flywheel for an automatic transmission flexplate.  All in all I'd say it's more money and time than it's worth as opposed to just rebuilding or replacing manual transmission parts.  Hope this helps.

Steve