At 21:19 8-06-97 -0400, Andrew Mace <amace@unix2.nysed.gov> wrote:
>> >[Spitfire] transmission...sounds like an old tired wrktruck
>> >does.... My dad thinks the synchronizers on the first gear (only gear it
>> >makes this noise) are going bad. Also, the thing is impossible to
>> >downshift into first gear without grinding it. Anything to worry
>> >about? The transmission fluid is circa 1972 so I am going to change
>> >that today and see if it works any better.
>>
>> You almost certainly have an original, 'early' gearbox, with
>> *unsynchronised* first gear. It behaves exactly like it should. What you do
>> is you come to a complete standstill before you downshift into first....
>
>Agreed, Eric, on the diagnosis of an early gearbox!
Phew! I'm glad... ;-)
>But I must disagree
>on your recommendation for dealing with it. One simply needs to practice
>the fine art of double-clutching and "matching revs"!
>
>Warning: it is better first to practice this technique with a
>third-to-second downshift to get used to the coordination and sensitivity
>needed. However, once mastered, the technique is great for impressing
>friends. If one is then feeling really bold, one can attempt to learn the
>equally fine (and admittedly almost always useless) art of shifting
>without use of the clutch. I find this technique is best learned on an
>old 120 or 140 series Volvo -- the ones with the incredibly long shift
>levers (lever being THE operative word in this case).
Of course, you're right. Learning this skill should be a compulsory part of
getting your driver's licence! (as should folding down tops/hoods...)
>Or, get an all-synchro box! :-)
Will you tell him about the number of splines or shall I? ;-)
Eric 'never driven an automatic' Kieboom
The Netherlands
('77 1500 Spit)
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