2002 2wd, 5sp manual tranny, 152,000 miles.

Just returned from 2000 mile trip. Here is the trouble I am having.

At a stop, about 35% of time, it is difficult getting into 2nd gear.
Getting rolling, it shifts fine up to 5th. About 40% of the time, I have to go back to 4th (cluth still in) then back up to 5th. It will usually go right into 5th then.

Down shifting when slowing, it is difficult to get into 3rd and 2nd.

Reverse is a whole different experience. Nearly 80% of time, cannot get into reverse unless I turn the truck off then start back up already in reverse.

With the exception of reverse, shifts easiest at 1600 to 1700 rpm.

So, time for new clutch? Slave cyl? full rebuild?

 

when have you changed the fluid does it work better if you pump the clutch

 

This sounds like you might have to double clutch!! just kidding

 

change your fluid and see if this helps if you haven't. how long has it been?

 

Try pumping the clutch as previously stated. Sure sounds like a master/slave cylinder issue. It's replaced as an entire unit. I had to replace mine 2 years ago, similar symptoms. South Bend Clutch sells the kit.

 

I second Ruralmedic. Sounds like slave cylinder isn't pumping up. Don't hear about shift problems w NV4500 very much unless its the slave cylinder or needs a new clutch.

Kurt

 

I have to admit (per the owners manual) I have never changed the fluid in this tranny. It has slowly been getting worse since it first started acting this way 7 months ago (in the winter). Once the weather warmed up, it seemed better until the last month.
I plan to change fluid tomorrow (What fluid is recommended and how much).

Whether it makes a difference or not, of the 152,000 miles, I would guess that 80% of the miles are freeway trips of 30 miles or more. Clutch has never given any slip indication.

I'll post after fluid change.
Any other help/tips are greatly appreciated.

EDIT: Let me also add that when I last check the fluid level (145,000 miles), it was full. I have never had a leak from this tranny.

 

The OEM fluid is Castrol Syntorq LT, a 75W-85 GL4 synthetic lubricant. There should be a tag on your transmission with the Chrysler and GM part numbers for that fluid. Should take 4 quarts. It's also available from Quad4X4.com Good luck! I'll bet you'll be replacing the master/slave unit, though. JMHO