ok...the 83 and the 81 are both in need of a bit o' tranny work. I asked around and the only tranny shop near me with a good reputation wants ~$800 to rebuild mine or $500 if they can find one that's already rebuilt and trade mine for theirs. This seems awfully high to me, so I did some investigating to try and figure out EXACTLY what I need. So here goes...

 

the 81: The synchros are shot on third. first, second, fourth and reverse all work just fine. If you try to go from 2nd to 3rd, though, it will grind. SOMETIMES, you can get it to go into third by going from 2nd to 4th, bouncing the clutch and quickly shifting back down to 3rd. As I understand it, this indicates that syncrhos are shot and a rebuild is required before the whole thing nukes itself. Unfortunately for me, I've never once had a transmission open although I did once see the insides of a GM TH350 on the highway. That was kinda neat, but I don't think it'll help me rebuild a 4-speed d/r. Transmissions scare the crap out of me, so I'm wondering if there is anyone near me (sort of?) who would be willing to either help me rebuild what I have or trade me a good one for mine plus parts/work/???? I'm out on the Olympic Peninsula.

 

the 83: Got this car for free a few months back. Trans oil looks DISGUSTING! I'll be draining it this coming weekend. Does anyone know of a good way to flush a manual trans? I was kinda thinking maybe I'd drop in a qt of ATF, top off with 80w-90 and run it a while, then drain and refill w/ 80w-90. Sound reasonable? Also, are there any additives that recommended for the refill? Power Punch? MMO? Magic Purple?

 

All input appreciated.

THanks!

bump

bump...again

the d/r tranny is a pretty complicated unit, I would look for a new one. I had the same issue with mine. If you weren't so far away I'd sell you one of mine, or you could do a 5spd d/r swap perfect time for it, especially if yours is lifted. I also have some of those too.Anyway I'd say new tranny time, faster easier fix, shop around there may be more guys with trannys closer to you on the board that would sell for less I'm sure.