How to Test Drive Getrag to Verify Function?

[EJames]

I am looking at purchasing a '93 D250 2wd with 5 speed getrag. The truck has just over 100K miles. Can anyone suggest the best way to verify the getrag is working properly and how to identify any existing problems while test driving / inspecting? Thanks.

 

[1stgen4evr]

Any problem that the transmission had would be significant if it manifest with just a driving test.



Are you a mechanic? Are you familiar with how it should sound, feel, shift, etc when it is in correct order?



There should be no noise, no trembling of the shift stick, easy engagment of each gear without undue pressure required to move into each gear. Each shift should feel about the same as the others. Is the clutch in good order so that the transmission can shift as it should? Did the previous owner know about overfilling one quart?



No noise, easy shift and 13 years old would TEND to confirm a good transmission. At 125k, my transmission was like new. Others failed much sooner.



Good luck

James

 

[JLEONARD]

Yes if it shifts fairly smoothly and there is no vibration type noises it should be fine.

I said "fairly" smoothly" because IMO the Getrag is not as nice as most other trannys I've had in other vehicles. But that's my opinion.

Hope this helps.

Jay

 

[dpuckett]

I've noticed the same thing about the Getrag being a hair stiffer than say, the T19 Ford I had 8 years ago. But that is kinda apples to oranges. One thing I will say, is that at lower RPMs (under 1500, or in 5th at <40mph) the transmission will tend to groan if you get into the throttle. I have had 7 of these, and they ALL did it. Some I towed quite heavy with- just kept RPMs up and all was well.



Daniel

 

[1stgen4evr]

The low rpm noise eminates from the clutch center due to the extreme torque pulse of the individual cylinder ignitions at lower rpms. Keep the rpms above that point and you will do the entire drive line a favor. Michaels phrase for the Cummins - - Torque Monster is very appropriate.



James

 

[chunter]

What does trembling of the shifter indicate? My truck trembles in 3rd gear sometimes.



Thanks

 

[1stgen4evr]

There is a good chance that the preload of the bearings has been lost and the mainshaft is slightly wobbling at the pocket bearing. It can also be something on the truck that is originating the shake and it shows at the shifter. The spring under the pivot on the shifter can be broken and allow it to shake more noticably. Those are things I have seen first hand.



James

 

[chunter]

Thanks for the info James.

 

[JLEONARD]

What does trembling of the shifter indicate? My truck trembles in 3rd gear sometimes

It is afraid of what is comming next. You have trained your Getrag to fear you possibly by the use of excess force.

You need to caress it, nurture it, treat it with respect. :-laf :-laf

 

[1stgen4evr]

You need to caress it, nurture it, treat it with respect.



Yes, love your truck, but not to death.



James