93 850 Manual shift problems

robtas · Post by **robtas** » 12 Nov 2004, 11:48

I'm having a problem with my manual 93 850 GLT. I bought it used and in good shape about two years ago and currently have about 120k on it, although I have a tendency to drive it pretty hard (but it holds up!).

Just recently, I was driving about 25mph on a city street in 3rd, when the engine suddenly seemed to jump from 3rd into neutral, along with a nasty gear clashing sound. I hit the clutch and put it back into 3rd. However, ever since then, I haven't been able to downshift at all into 2nd or 1st. If I am at a complete stop, I have to really shove the stick into 1st, otherwise it won't engage. Same thing with reverse. I have to try and shove it back into reverse a couple of times before it engages.

Any ideas? I'm due for a business car trip in a couple of days and don't have time to take it into the shop until afterwards - should I risk it or just get a rental until I can get this fixed? Thanks!

Tsquared · Post by **Tsquared** » 12 Nov 2004, 18:58

Sounds like you stripped a synchronizer. The inability to down shift is the key.

kenk · Post by **kenk** » 16 Nov 2004, 20:15

yea sounds like the synchromesh may be trashed.

FYI trannies in some really older cars did not have snychromeshes, hence the need to learn the art of double clutching... try a google search, if your synchros are really gone, double clutching should help

also try a tranny shop at least have a pro confirm its not something silly...