Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Did I or didn't I lose 5th gear?

[JustinLee]

I was recently pulling a trailer in 5th gear and all of a sudden, 5th acted like neutral. I assumed, as did the mechanic, that the 5th gear nut backed itself off. He pulled off the rear housing of the transmission to just put a new nut on, but it was fine and in place. He checked what he could without a full tear down but can't find anything wrong.



Is there a problem that could give you the same idications of 5th backing off????



Thanks

Justin

 

[hsmith]

Still could be the gear sliping on the shaft. Have him remove the nut and gear for inspection. There is little to no spline there.

 

[HCannon]

Had the same thing happen to me, it turned out to be a snap ring broke and let a gear slip and not go into gear. It was a easy fix, didnt have to pull the trans. The biggest problem was getting all the broken snap ring out of the bottom of the trans. , had a hard time finding all of it.

 

[froghunter]

Simple to complex fix

My '98 12 valve had the same symptom of slipping into neutral. I elected to have the trans pulled and evaluated, and I'm glad I did. It presently is apart and the mechanics found multiple metal pieces showing advanced wear and some breakage. New parts have been ordered for reassembly. Yours may have a simple fix, but mine wasn't.

 

[JustinLee]

The mechanic, after finding nothing wrong, put everything back together and 5th worked just fine. I remember it slipping out and tried it several times just to be certain; but now its fine?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?! He suggested the clutch may have been slipping, but then I would have had issues with all gears. This one will have to be marked as a mystery, until the issues resurfaces at the most inopportune time.

 

[hsmith]

If your clutch is original or stock, he may be right. It will slip in 5th before you notice in the lower gears. A #10 plate will wear on a factory clutch.

 

[JustinLee]

It is an upgraded towing clutch and flywheel sized for the 6-speed.

 

[hsmith]

Hmmm, not sure about this one then. Keep us posted.