We checked my son's 90 automatic today, and it has skinny shafts on both sides. So, we've already started detailing the 89 manual "fat shaft", so it's ready to go in with the rest of the swap. We're going to put this thing together just like as if it were a factory 5-speed car.
The motor mounts were replaced not too many miles ago at the dealership according to the receipts I got with the car. They also installed a new oil pan, so the originals must have been completely shot. I'll double-check the transmission mount before I pull his car apart for the swap, but the last time I looked, it was in good shape. If it's questionable, I'll order a new one.
I'm sure this one will take a bit of a pounding too! He doesn't drive it hard, but he WILL be learing to drive a manual transmission the moment it comes off the jack stands! Sink or swim, son; Haha... I've had him out in mine a few times for familiarization, and he's a natural. But, we never left the neighborhood with it (no license tags). The true learning will come in the day-to-day traffic environment. In all seriousness, I'll be taking him out for several driving lessons and practice before I turn him loose on the world. I want to make sure he's ready. But like I said, from what he showed me driving my car, he will come up the learning curve quickly.
JD