Nissan Repair: 85 Nissan 300ZX Transmission downshift, nissan 300zx, case change

Question
I just bought an '85 Nissan 300ZX. When I downshift it growls. To avoid this I keep the clutch in as I roll to a stop, then put it in first gear.

This car also seems to need to warm up, then the shifting is easier.


Answer
Jim,

I need some more information here.  Does the transmission make the growl noise when you slow down by putting it in lower gears?  It probably does and this would be the internal bearings of the transmission.  If this is the case change the gear oil to see if that takes care of the problem.  Yours should use ATF fluid for the manual and if this is correct use Mobil 1 5W30 synthetic and it should make the noise go away.  So, if I am on target let me know.