possible trans problem?

[djais1801]

So, when I bought my car the guy told me the 1st gear synchro was bad.  When the car is driven easy and shifted early I find no issues.  As I start shifting at higher RPM's I find it hard to go into gear, OR it will make a grinding sound like it wasn't finding the gear (but it was in the gear when I let off the clutch-2nd to 3rd and 3rd to 4th).
Also, downshifting depending on the RPM's (harder at 3g's then lower).

Does this sound like a synchro problem, or am I looking at a new trans?
If I need to fix the trans, is it better to rebuild what I have or buy a rebuilt. have a budget of about $2500 (to include labor).

[Chryco Psycho]

The job of a syncro is to match the speed of the shaft & gear so it acts as a brake to slow the faster moving part to the speed of the slower moving part so yes the brass syncros could be worn & not gripping properly , the rings can be swapped out relatively easily , I was buying rebuild kits for around $150 complete with new brgs & gaskets , the new rings have a cross cut so the oil can bleed out from under the ring better too .
 The other issue can be using the incorrect oil , , any of the GL5 synthetic oils are too slippery causing the syncros to act like they are worn & not grabbing the moving parts . you need to use GL4 rated gear oil

[anlauto]

I would contact Brewers Performance and buy the "brass & seal" kit, then take that to any reputable transmission shop. You should be well under $2500 Buy the parts from Brewers to insure the best quality.

Oil could be a factor, but I wouldn't get me hopes up

[djais1801]

thanks fellas!

[dodj]

The other issue can be using the incorrect oil , , any of the GL5 synthetic oils are too slippery causing the syncros to act like they are worn & not grabbing the moving parts . you need to use GL4 rated gear oil

Hey CP. I use Mopar ATF+3 in my 833. 25 years ago the local mopar guys said to use it and it is all i've ever used in my 4 gears. Found gear oil too thick and didn't shift as easily. With ATF I've never had an issue yet. You ever use it?

[Chryco Psycho]

Nope , figured ATF was too light to use in an 833 but I have seen others use it in the past too .

[bigblue73]

Classic synchro issue right there.  It will not cost you anywhere near the budget that you have.  Parts are available and reasonable with respect to everything else.  Remember to replace the pilot bushing when the trans is out.  Nothing worse that getting everything done and have that "Buzz" from the pilot bushing.  Learn from my experience.

[djais1801]

Classic synchro issue right there.  It will not cost you anywhere near the budget that you have.  Parts are available and reasonable with respect to everything else.  Remember to replace the pilot bushing when the trans is out.  Nothing worse that getting everything done and have that "Buzz" from the pilot bushing.  Learn from my experience.

thanks BigBlue