Hey guys for some time now (actually since we got a new clutch about 3,000 miles ago) when its cold (the tranny fluid) it has a really hard time going into first and second and it does it more a little while after its been ran for a while. the other problem is that it is really really hard to get it into reverse. you have to like put it into reverse like 5 times before it finally engages. does anyone know what the problem could be? the transmission has 232,000 on it and its just the stock 5-speed connected to a SOHC.

 

Does it grind when you try and get it in gear? If so, it sounds like something isnt set right with the clutch, or the synchros are going in the transmission.

Also check to make sure the crossover cable is adjusted properly on the shifter.

 

yea it grinds... is there a way to test to the synchros without taking the transmission out?

 

You just did. Sounds like you synchros have seen better days. Also could be bent shift forks but sounds like worn synchros.

As you sit still trying to slide the trans into reverse what is happening is the Diamond shaped engaging teeth are no longer shaped properly and then when you shift into reverse you meeting flatter/duller teeth and getting cought up. If all you were having trouble with was reverse I'd tell you to try placing the trans in like 5th first to change the physical gears to be in slightly diffferent alignment. But if 1 & 2 are grinding, time to tear it apart and fix it up. new synchros and bearing all around. Be much happy.

 

guess i'll do that when my engine finally gives out... or transmission which ever one comes first...

 

i did not know that a manual has tranny fluid i thought it was jsut a bunch of grease but any ways...i had a problem with mine but it had to much play...there was a bushing missing on one of the shifting forks..so i went to ace and got a rubber gromemt and a cotter pin and fixed it my self then it still has trouble going in reverse. when i think its in revers its not in it it just grinds.

 

Are you serious? Of course it has fluid in it.