Transmission

dbrody · 03-11-2002, 09:39 AM

I just dropped in a new engine and I'm having a problem with the transmission. Any help would be appreciated.

Here are the symptoms. Everything works great in every gear except first. When I put it into first and let up on the clutch, the car shudders, tries to move, and then kicks it out of first. I can get it into first by using a level surface and easing up the clutch ever so slowly. On a slight incline, this doesn't work. Any ideas?

Dave

WFBowen · WFBowen's Garage

Dave:
You've probably tried these, but I'll throw them out to keep this thread active. (I'm assuming that the trans was okay before the new motor was put in.) 4 or 5sp? Did you pull the engine with trans or engine only? Double check all mounts, engine/trans bolts, etc. Did you disconnect the shift rod/coupler or gearshift mechanism? Are you absolutely sure about the clutch/p-plate condition? When you're coasting slowly, can you get it into 1st coming down from 2nd?

dbrody · 03-12-2002, 08:51 AM

I've tried some of them. It worked great before I pulled the engine. I pulled only the engine and not the trans. I didn't check the mounts for the trans, but I did make sure the four bolts that connect the trans to the engine were nice and tight. I did have a probably with the throwout bearing (it caught inside and wouldn't allow the clutch to engage fully). I pulled the engine again and replaced the clutch and throwout bearing, etc. It is a 5sp. The clutch and p-plate seem fine (I'm not sure why this would make difference in only first though). I will try to see if I can get it into 1st by downshifting. I also disconnected the shift rod/coupler and reconnected using the setting procedure in the shop manual. One thing I am worried about though is that I did not disconnect the coupler when I pulled the engine. I disconnected it after I had.

Dave

WFBowen · WFBowen's Garage

Dave: Maybe try (engine not running) removing the coupler inspection cover, moving gearshift into first & watching its motion (i.e. which way it's attempting to go. Then manually grab the rod and see if you can move it more in that direction to see if 1st will fully engage. If you feel a definite "stop" in the movement you're in 1st. If you could do more by manually manipulating the rod than the shift lever could do, then carefully readjust the shifter mech. Also check all of your bushings in the lever assy & coupler.