3 replies to this topic

[mk=john]

Hello
I have a 998 Cooper (1966), and the engine gearbox have been rebuilt. I have done 300 miles since rebuild. Sometimes, when I change from neutral to first, the gears crunch. I find that if I shift very slowly and gently, there is no crunch.

There is no crunching in any other gear.

Does the clutch need adjusting?

[Dan]

Your car should have a B type 3 synchro gearbox. That means there is no synchromesh on first gear, it's a crash gear. You have to change gear at exactly the right time and right engine/road speed to avoid crunching. Adjusting the clutch may help some but it's more to do with how you use the gerbox.

Unless your car has had a later 4 synchro gearbox fitted, in that case it is the clutch.

[mk=john]

Hi
Thanks for the info. That all ties up with how I use the gearbox. When I have just switched the engine on, as long as I shift the stick carefully, there is no crunch.

If the first gear is crucnhing, I am worried I will damage the gearbox. How likely is this to happen?

[Grayedout]

As there is no synchro then you must make sure you have completely stopped moving before selecting 1st gear.

Also try waiting a couple of seconds from pressing the clutch to actually selecting the gear to give the gearbox time to stop turning !