Hey all,

I have a 2wd '87 with the 4 speed manual and inline 6 engine. It hasn't been very good at getting into reverse since I bought it, but more recently, it has also been having a bit of trouble getting into 1st and 2nd.

The problem is a little peculiar though. It tends to be harder to get into 1st and 2nd when it is cold, and it gets easier as the truck warms up (note: easier doesn't mean normal). Sometimes, however, it still gives trouble without any cold temperatures and for the occasional shift, it works flawlessly even in the cold. Normally, if I give a bit of force and wait, it eventually settles into gear, otherwise it takes a hard push. 2nd gear grinds sometimes as well, but only 2nd gear.

Also of note, 3rd and 4th gear are smooth as butter.

Anybody have an idea what causes this?

Thanks!

 

First and second are going and you are probably looking at a new tranny.

 

Maybe worn shift forks? I've been having the same issue with my '90 5 speed...just been too cold to mess with it until recently. Mine doesn't grind though, just takes it a minute to "settle" into 2nd. Have you tried pumping the clutch before shifting to see if that helps?

 

Is it the overdrive or granny low?

 

Hoping not a new tranny...hopefully just forks?

Anyway, it is the overdrive I believe.

 

Yea check the forks. You can do it without removing the transmission after unscrewing the plate on the floor.

 

FWIW, my M5R2 was extremely difficult to shift into first if I didn't do it just right as I was coming to a stop. Sometimes I would have to go 3 to 2 to 1 to even get it in. Long story short when I did the clutch I drained the fluid and replaced it with Mercon V (supercedes Dex/Merc) and it took about 300 miles but man, it's night and day difference. Maybe worth a shot for ya.

 

No his transmission takes gear oil, the 5 speed takes automatic transmisson fluid.

 

Ok, I'll see if I can dig up the time to take a look at the forks.

Is there any chance that being low on gear oil could be causing this problem? I know it leaked a bit, but I don't think it was too much

 

Well if it's low that's the first thing you need to do.