Bad shifting noises...

[samwise68]

Hey all.

My ol' 3 speed has been acting up lately. When I downshift from 3rd to 2nd, there is an odd grinding sound.

I figured it was the clutch not being adjusted right. so, adjusted the clutch, it's still there.

If i take my time shifting, and let it spin some, it seems to slide right on home.

We're kind of thinking it's a pilot or throw out bearing, and when it's allowed to spin between shifting, it centers itself. Sloppy input shaft, or bad detents also were considered.

any comments, advice, previous experience, 2 cents would be great on this.

thanks in advance all!

-Sam.

[Wrenchbender Ret]

The syncronizers are bad. 2nd & 3 rd gears have syncros. that adjust the speed of the shaft before it engauges.

[samwise68]

thank you!

I thought it might be that, but was leaning towards something more clutch related.

alright. I have a spare 3 speed in a parts truck I'll pull soon.

Also, please forgive my amateurness, but, will driving it be an issue? heh. as in, is this sucker gonna grenade on me? or, if i drive nice (double clutch maybe?) it'll last for a little bit.

thanks again!

-Sam.

[WorkinLonghorn]

You can still drive it like that as long as you match speeds before shifting,ie,when downshifting rev it a bit,and when up-shifting,let it fall to where it will be after the shift.

[samwise68]

alright, thanks so much guys.

It's always easier to solve a problem when it's more than just my dad and I thinkin' on it.

That eases my mind on the driving as well, because thats usually how i drive when i'm not pretending my truck is faster than it really is, heh.

-Sam.

[Longhorn Man]

I agree, the syncros are probably getting worn... but, did you check the oil level?

[samwise68]

I will be sure to check it tomorrow. I honestly can't remember if I filled it all the way up when I did the clutch or not. I know I filled it, but all the way...I'm uncertain. Will do!

Thanks for tips guys. any more ideas are always welcome, just in case I don't have to do a tranny swap. hah.

-Sam.

[samwise68]

well. pulled the spare 3 speed. and that sucker is about half the length of the one in the truck. sooo. this could be a bit of an issue. Unless I take the driveshaft out of the truck as well, which would require a new carrier bearing, etc. a general freshening. Plus, I don't even know if that tranny is any good..let alone what kind it is, hah.

The plan for right now is to take it realllly easy, and hope she lasts for a while.

cross your fingers guys...this could get interesting.

-Sam.