The issue I am trying to find answers to are regarding an fb with 79,000 miles on it. It's a real cream puff. I do not race it but drive it hard enough to keep things cleaned out.

The problem I am trying to find answers to is the notchy chuuuunk sound you hear and feel when shifting from 1st to 2nd, and again from 2nd to 3rd. Overall, I feel like the shifter would suit me better if it felt a little more solid. I feel as though it is best to place it into gear to avoid the notch rather than to throw it into a particular gear without much thought.

What could I do to make things better? (Everything ranging from inexpensive solutions to expensive solutions)

Any suggestions would be much appreciated.

 

I have not really noticed a notchiness or chuunk sound.

First, check the obvious. Is the clutch disengaging / engaging properly? Checlk the fluid level in the clutch master cylinder, and look at it for leaks. Often they leak around the seal where the rod attached to the pedal goes into the M/C. Check for leaks around the clutch slave cylinder. Check to see if the hose is leaking.

I have found the transmission to be pretty durable as long as it is not abused, and at 79k miles, it should be fine.

Rich

 

Check/change tranny fluid?

 

Funny, both my Rx's needed tranny overhauls at about 70,000 miles...

 

How are your motor and transmission mounts? It could be they are worn out and the transmission is torque'ing ever so slightly one way or the other when you are shifting quickly.

How about the shifter bushings? They can also be worn out.

Syncros within the transmission could be worn in those gears.

 

Welcome to Mazda. They are all "notchy". I "walk it in" in all 3 Mazdas.