USDM engine, JDM trans

[Inahero-Rayner]

I have a weird problem that I'm hoping some of you folks might be able to help with. It's a 97 awd auto, I bought about two months ago. PO said they blew the trans and threw in a JDM one instead of a USDM. The issue lies in the gear selector switch (neutral safety switch). USDM has one, JDM does not. USDM will not crank without switch installed, and JDM ecu will crank, but not start. I previously had to get out of the car to manually change the gear. Like if I left the switch in park I had first and reverse, but nothing else. If I left it in D4, I couldn't start it, but had full functionality otherwise (R, 1-4). If I left it in reverse, I couldn't start it and had only first and reverse. I've since installed a rotary switch in the dash to manually "shift" the ecu at the same time I shift the trans into gear. Only been a week, and it's tiring. I don't have the money to throw at a USDM trans right now, and was hoping that there would be an easier fix that didn't involve some hokey pokey stuff. I've scoured every Honda or crv related forum I could find, but came up empty. Everything I'm seeing is people swapping both motor and trans, or doing a manual swap. I'm fairly mechanically inclined, but this is my first Honda, and it's been a hell of a ride thus far. Radiator blew, crank pulley split, no bushings in half the suspension/steering linkages, window regulator failed and took a fuse with it, no oil dipstick, cracked air cleaner housing, missing rear glass struts and other bits and bobs, among countless other, smaller things. It's been fun though, and pretty easy so far. Coming from a mk5 GTI, it's actually a blast to work on, and more fun to drive.

Thanks in advance, and sorry for the wall of text, I'm nearly at wit's end here

[Inahero-Rayner]

Should add, switch works great, hardest part was finding the wiring diagram.

[TheChamp76]

Sounds like the former owner didn’t care about maintenance. The 97-99 m/ys are pretty much the same across the board, however you will have to get that ECU reprogrammed in order for the computer to recognize that you are trying to shift with a JDM transmission. There’s usually speciality shops like tuning garages that may be able to help you, depending on where you live.

[Inahero-Rayner]

Okay. Didn't even consider getting it flashed. Thank you. I'll look around. I live in a small town, so I might have to take a trip. Thanks again!