Suzuki: Suzuki sidekick/Vitara JLX 1996-1997 conversion of automatic tranny to manual tranny - disabling the TCM, vitara jlx, transmission control module

Question
Hi David,

I had just recently converted my vitara from a 3 speed auto tranny with OD, to an original manual 5 speed Vitara tranny. My Vitara has a separate TCM (transmission control module) that controlled the auto tranny, the Zuk had been running fine for the past few days I just wanted to know if I have to disconnect the wiring harness/connection of the TCM, will it have an effect on the driveability of the engine, or the ECU, or would it be ok for me to disconnect it, I just cant recall that when I still had the auto tranny connected when I pulled the TCM harness to check it will run well with TPS, I think the CHECK ENGINE came on.

Thanks,

Mike

Answer
I suspect that it will run ok with the TCM unplugged.  As for the check engine light, it may be that the ECM is specific to an auto trans vehicle, and has "noticed" that the TCM is no longer communicating.  
Unfortunately, almost all my experience is with 90 and earlier Samurais, and I have no literature on later vehicles.