I have a 1980 RX7 with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Going into 2nd gear is finicky especially when downshifting. Going from 1st to 2nd isn't too bad if I shift slow, but getting it to sync from 3rd to 2nd is tricky. I've been double clutching and trying to sinc the gears with the throttle but it's pretty tricky to hit it right.

So I figure I have 3 choices:

1) replace tranny with a salvaged one and hope its in good shape

2) have the tranny rebuilt ($$$$)

3) replace with new/rebuilt tranny ($$$$)

So what's the best choice and where do I get the parts?

Thanks.

 

Two possibilities here:

a. The synchros are simply failing, and about to let go.

b. The synchros are gummed up with years of crud, and cannot move freely.

If your problem is b. then you can always try the 50/50 mix of ATF/Gear Lube. Sometimes it works miracles...







.

 

You are the only one that can answer you question as far as what to do.

If you can afford it and plan on keeping the car for a long time then my recommendation is to have your transmission rebuilt. You just call around to every shop that rebuilds manual transmissions in your area and see you has the best price and warranty. Taking the transmission out yourself of course will save lots of money.

If it is not within your budget right now or don't plan on keeping the vehicle then search the wrecking yards for a used transmission or place a WTB thread in your regional classifieds and in the main classifieds.

Rebuilding it your self is another option but requires a very large puller for part of the process then you have to source parts for the transmission. Then if you screw it up there is no warranty. :-)

 

I know its not gummed fluid.

I've drained it three times and put in fresh.

Tried heavy duty Lucas, but it seemed too think for the synchros to work freely. Felt the other gears bumping once in a while.

Now I'm running Royal Purple and 2nd is even worse.

 

Your transmission is bad! End of story. :-)

 

Found a tranny at a salvage yard.

Guess I'll replace it and hope this one is good.

 

I had that same problem when I first got mine from some "kid" who wanted to drift the '85....first, second, third,forth and fifth was great...then third starting to make a popping sound when you started to pull up hill....(i live in the mountains) then one day I pulled into work coasting about 20mph..let out on the clutch in second gear and (think about a pro-stock drag car blowing up,sound wise)..my tranny blow third and forth clean though the bottom of the tranny..I spent 3 hours picking up parts....when in doubt about a sound in the tranny and you want to keep it in good...fix it asap or don't drive it till you can fix it....I have yet to find a tranny for mine now for about 6 months...