Manual Transmission Diagnosis
Transmission Repair Manual
Last week’s post was about manual transmission diagnosis and repair. This week I will dive a little deeper into actually diagnosing problems.
Surprisingly, information about manual transmissions is not that easy to find on the Internet. That is why I decided to post a few more times about this subject.
But keep in mind the most accurate information is available in your vehicle specific auto repair manual. This should list the most common problems associated with, your transmission and/or trans-axle if you have a front wheel drive car.
Here is also a Amazon link for the how to rebuild manual transmissions
Many problems that seem transmission related may actually be caused by defects in the clutch assembly differential or drive shaft areas. Check these areas along with your standard diagnosis, particularly if you are considering removing the transmission for further inspection or repair.
Visually inspect your manual transmission
RWD Manual Transmissions
Before you start grabbing wrenches and removing bolts it is always recommended to perform a really good visual inspection. Here are five of the things that you should check for.
1) Check for looseness of the transmission by pushing up and down on the unit from the tail shaft (a pry bar in the right place makes this easier). Take a look at the transmission mounts to see if the rubber separates from the metal plate. If the case moves up but not down. The mounts may require replacement.
2) Check for lubrication leaks at all of the gasket and sealing areas. On manual transmissions the output shaft seals or rear trans seal where the front drive shaft yoke slides in is prone to leakage. So don’t miss taking a look at this tail shaft seal.
3) Check the case body for signs of porosity that show up as a leak or seepage of lubricant. Aluminum housings can have small imperfections that allow transmission fluid to leak out of areas that are not sealed by gaskets. Read more
