I'm having a problem shifting gears after a new clutch install. It's only been 200 miles, but it's getting harder and harder to get the car in gear. Missed a couple of 4-5 shifts. Grinding noise one time going into reverse. Thought it might be air in the line not allowing full disengagement, but no luck. Installer suggesting that the gear synchros might be going bad. Any thoughts? Thanks.

 

If you have problems after a clutch install that didn't exist before the clutch install, suspect the install.

So was the issue present before this clutch?

Ranger

 

Ranger-

I started to have some issues before, which is what drove me to do the clutch in the first place. It seems that things have worsened since the replacement though.

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Mike

 

Is there a thread you can point me to where you tell the story of the (1)symptoms that led you to replace the clutch and (2) details of what clutch parts were replaced?

We are talking about the 99 FRC? I don't find a profile of the car, its mods etc....

Ranger

 

Ranger-

Yes, we are talking about the '99. It has about 72,000 miles on it. Mods include a stage 2 heads and cam package in addition to LT headers, intake manifold, air filter, exhaust, throttle body, computer reprogram, etc. plus a 150 hp nitrous shot not used for over a year.

The symptoms started last year. I started to have more and more slipping of the clutch, especially with higher RPM shifts. Also, it would get harder to shift into 2nd and 3rd without a slight grinding feeling. This all lead me to believe that the original clutch had finally given up the ghost and needed replacement.

While in Iraq, I ordered a complete LS7 clutch and flywheel from Fred Beans. We also replaced the master and slave with LS6 parts. These were then sent with the car to a well-reputed Corvette specialist for install.

Since the install, it's become harder and harder to get through the gears. This has become progressive over the last 200 miles, and has included several times where I missed getting into 5th gear from 4th. I finally brought it back to the installer and upon pulling in and switching quickly from 2nd to reverse, the gears ground loudly and refused to engage. They (the gears) finally relented after several tries, and that's where we stand.

I hope this helps.

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Mike

 

Thanks, that's helpful.

(1) Has the tranny ever been repaired, rebuilt or upgraded?
(2) How many nitrous runs are on the car?

Ranger

 

I recently baought a '98 coupe with 100k miles on it. It was difficult to get into first gear at times, plus I'd sometimes miss a shift in 2nd, 3rd and/or 4th on hard fast shifts. I've had a MN6 '98 vert for the last 2 years, so I know how it SHOULD shift. Something was definitely amiss!

I figured my synchros were just about toast, but I had all my fluids changed, including the tranny. It gradually got better, and after a few hundred miles it now shifts as it should.

So you might try a fluid change before dumping more $$$ into it. Worth a try anyway!

Good luck!

Dave

 

1. No, nothing has ever been done to the tranny.
2. Over the years, I've probably been through 3-4 bottles max.

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Mike

 

Dave-

Thanks for the input. Years ago, after installing the Ripper shifter, she shifted like a dream. I agree that a $60 fluid change is much better than a $3000 tranny.

Mike

 

I'm noticing some crappyness going into second gear and general difficulty getting into gears and the forum suggested in unison to put synthetic ATF in (Amsoil) and that would solve my problems. Well see, I ordered the amsoil today!

 

Given the history, you must shift well.

As others have said swapping the tranny fluid is an easy first step. If that doesn't clear the issues, then I'd suggest contacting Rodney, owner of RPM Transmissions in Indiana. He builds bullet-proof trannies at prices that are competitive with what the local dealer or tranny shop will charge for a rebuild. Actually, right now Rodney has a deal on that includes free shipping.

Ranger

 

Mike,
Don't think I can add to what Ranger's already said, but wanted to say that is a pretty impressive showing of cars in your sig. I especially like the Crossed Flags on the Porsche.

Good luck with your tranny.

 

Thanks, Ranger. I'll give the fluid swap a try, and if that doesn't solve things, then I'll give Rodney a call.

Any consensus on which ATF to use?

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Mike

 

Thanks, Shipmate!

I told my wife that the only way I'd let her trade her Z71 Tahoe for the Cayenne was to wear the Corvette license plate as well!!

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Mike

 

Looks like she agreed.

 

That she did - it was a win-win situation for me as well.

While we gave up some room in the back for our dogs, in return, we got sports car handling in a vehicle that can tow 7700 pounds!!

Now if only I could afford the Cayenne Turbo S!!!

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Mike

 

The Cayenne can tow 7700 lbs? That's the same rating (more or less) as my wife's Chevy Trailblazer. I'll have to look into the Cayenne more than I have.

 

Rated at 7716 pounds and 616 pounds max tongue weight. Dimensions as follows: Length 188.3 in
Width 75.9 in
Height 66.9 in
Wheelbase 112.4 in
Drag coefficient (Cd) .39
Curb weight 4,949 lbs
Tiptronic S
Capacities Luggage compartment volume 19.1 cu ft
Fuel tank capacity 26.4 gal

Trailblazer rates as follows:

Wheelbase 113.0 in
Length 191.8 in
Height (without luggage rack) 72.50 in
Rear seat up 39.7 cu ft
Rear seat folded down 70.0 cu ft
Towing 5400-6400 lbs (depending on rear end)
Curb weight 4,773 lbs (4x4)

So, they're pretty comparable in overall size, with the Chevy getting the nod for interior room....but can't compare in ride and handling. Give one a test drive, I think you'll like it.

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Mike

 

Thanks for the info Mike. I really had no idea the Cayenne was rated to tow that much. My wife has the 5.3L V-8 in her Trailblazer EXT with the trailer towing package. I thought it was rated to tow over 7000 lbs, but looking at Chevy's website shows 6500 for her truck.

When I get a minute I'll go check one out.

 

My pleasure. Enjoy and good luck!!

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Mike