toddrhodes

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Hi all. I've been battling this for awhile but thankfully I don't find myself needing to push the card hard from 1st to 2nd all that often which is where this issue comes up. Basically, Over about 5500 RPM and under heavy throttle, I've got a grind into 2nd gear from 1st.

• Long ago, like 2+ years ago, I messed with the clutch actuator rod. From memory, I turned it counter-clockwise if you were looking straight through the dash into the engine bay. I think that increases pre-load and raises the engagement point but I honestly don't recall
• I swapped from GM Syncromesh to Amsoil MTF about 500 miles ago and no change.
• Every other gear at every other RPM/WOT is fine. If I bang 2nd to 3rd hard, the clutch bites very nicely. I don't think this is clutch-related
• I am going to check when I go to lunch but I don't think I've recently checked clutch fluid.
• My mechanic thinks this could be hydraulic-related
• After it grinds, getting back into 1st from neutral is difficult. I generally have to go N-2-1 to get it in. Over time, this gets smoother and easier so long as it hasn't "ground" again

That's all the data points I can think of. Just curious if anyone has any other thoughts or recommendations on what this might be. I fear it's either a bent shift fork or a worn syncro. What do you think?

toddrhodes

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Quick update, decided to run out and check the clutch master cylinder and the fluid level is right above the lower line so I would think that does mean I need to add fluid. I'm not going to do that just yet in case there's a larger issue.

justnspace

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what!? fill the reservoir to rule that out.

toddrhodes

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I was just searching around and found that same advice I wasn't sure if it was like brakes where "low fluid" really means you need pads (most likely) and just filling the master isn't really fixing anything. Seems not to be the case here, thanks!

justnspace

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BOTH the brakes and the cluch are hydraulic. they BOTH operate the same way, with a push rod. also, the clutch fluid is DOT3 brake fluid.

toddrhodes

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Got it, much appreciated!

justnspace

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you're welcome! in for results.

toddrhodes

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Well, so far so good. Filled the reservoir to the top line and had two opportunities to ring out 1st and hit 2nd no issues either time. Hoping it's sorted but just cautiously optimistic at the moment.

Thanks again!
Todd

justnspace

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keeping fingers crossed!!

toddrhodes

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Wanted to come back and update this since it's been several weeks since I adjusted the master rod just a touch and topped up the clutch fluid - no issues to report. One time I have had an issue getting it fron N to 1st at a dead stop (which is what would happen often after it ground into 2nd) but no issues shifting hard 1st to 2nd and getting into first from neutral is buttery smooth 98% of the time now. And if I try, I can chirp into 3rd so I have to believe that indicates the clutch still has plenty of bite left in it.

Thanks again Justin!

Edit - Also wanted to add: I switched out Synchromesh for Amsoil MTF fluid and am loving it. IMO, the trans has never felt as solid yet smooth as it does with the Amsoil fluid in there.