How hard is it to fix transmission?

[eddy314]

3rd gear grinds and doesn't stay in. May be a synchro spring. I've been driving it since March going from 2cd to 4th and I miss 3rd gear.
Just how hard is it to open up the case and repair for an average joe. Do you need special tools and/or presses? It might cost over $800 if I send it in. Should I attempt myself or leave it to the pros?

[brunorahl]

It's a simple little box but also a real pain to get it right. For what you're describing, it's likely that 3rd gear is well worn. Not just the synchro. Unless you know what to look for as signs of a trashed component, you'd be better off having it done.

[red107]

There are vendors out there that sell rebuilt tranny's. Vicks and Matt at midwest bayless have the best prices out there. I got mine from Vicks. shipping is real cheap on them also.

[htchevyii]

I just had the tranny guy (don't get any funny ideas) at my work rebuild one for me. I had a very difficult time getting bearings, and getting the correct bearings. By the time I was done I had almost as much invested as it would have cost to buy a rebuilt one from a vendor, (of course now I have a rebuilt one with new shift forks, syncros, all bearings and first gear). It all depends on how much your core needs.

[ClarkTheShark]

taking one apart can be a pain. whats wrong with yours is a synchro ring. it be fixed for 25 bucks. replace the third gear synchro requires complete disassembly. its a pain but at the same time i wouldnt pay anyone to do it. you need a good pair snap ring pliers. i have a great book i can possibly scan that shows detailed assembly and disassambly instructions. while you have it apart, you should consider new synchros for 1,2 and 4 as well. and the synchro sleeves that mesh to the gears also tend to wear. there about 65 bucks a piece.

[eddy314]

Thanks Clark, I think I'll take you up on the scanned manual when you get a chance. I might just give it a try since I'll be taking the trouble to drop it anyway. And, if I can't fix it, then I'll send it in. That's part of the fun anyway, trying to be as frugal as possible keeping these cars running.

[ClarkTheShark]

totally agree... we have an on-going joke at my house. whenever i take apart a fiat transmission, i always seem to have ballbearings or shift lockout balls rolling all around the garage..My Uncle is the official designated "ball man." He goes and retrieves all the "spare parts" when they roll around the garage. just remember, get a good pair of snap-ring pliers. And take care of your gaskets.

[ClarkTheShark]

Thanks Clark, I think I'll take you up on the scanned manual when you get a chance. I might just give it a try since I'll be taking the trouble to drop it anyway. And, if I can't fix it, then I'll send it in. That's part of the fun anyway, trying to be as frugal as possible keeping these cars running.

ill be back in bham in a few days. ill do my best with the scan. might just take some res photos of the parts you need.

[kmead]

Having the manual scan available would be a great resource for us all as well as any other tips you can offer.

Many thanks in advance!

[billstyer]

Hi guys. The service manual is posted at Mirafiori. http://www.mirafiori.com/~kdickson/tran ... ce_man.pdf
Good Luck eddy!