Question3-4 months ago my dad replaced the clutch, flywheel, and barrens in my sisters car. It is hard to get the car in gear when she firsts cranks it up, but after it warms up it is OK. She took it to a mechanic who told her it has "internal noise", what exactly does that mean? Does it mean she needs a new transmission or could it possibly be it needs goop (for lack of a better word). Is she being had?
AnswerHi Shellie,
Most manual transmissions are slightly more difficult to get into gear when they are cold due to the viscosity of the fluid being higher than normal. But more difficult does not imply nearly impossible which is the way I take your explanation so it is possible that the synchro's in your trans are 'tight'. Sometimes they will make a nearly inaudible whine which may be what the mechanic is hearing. Now, I surely wouldn't replace my trans simply because the synchro's were whining a little, but I'm not the one driving your car. It could also be the sprag or planetary gears causing the noise, again, no need to replace the trans because of a sprag or planetary gear noise but like I said, I'm not the one driving the car.
It could also be that the clutch is not moving fully when the trans is cold. Next time you just start the car, when the trans is normally hard to shift, try depressing the clutch two or three times quickly THEN hold it down and try to shift into gear. If it slides into gear easier by double-clutching, you should have the clutch master or slave cylinder checked and adjusted.
Looking for a reputable service technician? My advice on finding a good technician is: Steer clear of the dealership and 'chain' stores like Firestone, Sears, Pep Boys, Monro Muffler/Brake, Midas, etc. as they usually only employ ONE ASE Certified Tech just so they can say they do and chances are, that guy is the asst. manager or manager and is not in the store to diagnose/repair vehicles anyway. Find a service location in the link below or get some names out of the yellow-pages and do a drive-by. Garages that employ ASE Certified Technicians will be marked with the 'Blue-Seal' insignia. If unsure about whether a place employs Certified Techs, just ask to see their credentials. ALL ASE Certified Technicians will be PROUD to show and display their certificate(s).
Thanks for the question, I hope this information was helpful to you.
Fred
Knucklebusters Used Auto & Truck Parts, Inc.
www.knucklebusters.us
570-453-0910
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