Newbie with a project car

[Newbie1979Pini]

I didn't call myself a Newbie for nothing. It has been decades since I drove a stick, and having driven automatics for sooooo long, I fogot to clutch when shifting into reverse. That was the loud noise I heard, and why the engine shut off. I'm moving this project thread to the appropriate category. I'll label it "Newbie's adventures in Fiat land" (not really). Look for "Newbie's project car".

[Exit98]

Ben,

Now I'm completely confused.

So, OK, you forgot the clutch. Stuff happens.

Is the transmission now damaged? Is reverse shot?

Converting to an auto trans is a big job, lots of ancillary parts needed.

Replacing the existing trans is easy. Here in NJ we have a big support group so somebody always has a spare transmission sitting around. They may not know if its good or not, but we'd throw it in and see how it worked.

By your self, not so easy, but there are plenty of options, just a question of how big a check you need to write.

[Newbie1979Pini]

Ben,

Now I'm completely confused.

So, OK, you forgot the clutch. Stuff happens.

Is the transmission now damaged? Is reverse shot?

1. Manual transmission was popping out of 4th gear.
2. I tore the tranny apart, and rebuilt (switching out worn forks and the 4th synchro ring with better used parts).
3 Taking it home I shifted into reverse and heard a loud "Pwingg" and the engine stopped. (I thought I screwed it up completele)
4. I also noticed that the transmission was leaking oil.
5. I began debating if I should give up on the manual and tackle the automatic install.
6. I decided that if I do install the automatic, I would still have to remove the manual, so I should look it over before proceeding.
7. With the manual out, I noticed that I screwed up the rear seal (luckly I had another one), so I replaced the rear seal and decided to test it by reinstalling it in the car.
8. With the car in the air (on a two post lift) I ran it through all of the gears, and everything held perfectly - including reverse). Also noted that nothing was leaking.
9. When I drove it home, I did the same mistake of not clutching when shifting, and then realized why I heard the "Pwingg" sound.

I do not believe I damaged the transmission too much by not depressing the clutch. I realize that the used parts I switched out will not last as long as brand new parts, so it will might need to be rebuilt again some time soon. But now I have learned from my mistakes, and next time it comes out, I'll be ready for it.

[Exit98]

Duane,

Wow you are way ahead of me, I'm not sure I'd have the guts to even try to rebuild a trans.

So you are good to go, just try to remember that pesky clutch.

Our motors and the trans too are pretty tough. I'll be you'll never have to open it up again.

Happy Trails!

[btoran]

i haven't had to yet, but i believe getting a tranny rebuilt costs $150 from a knowledgable board member and used ones are around as well. of course, you need to remove and reinstall it 9and pay for shipping), but $150 seems very reasonable to me. probably a bunch cheaper than switching over to automatic.