Stiff / heavy gearchange

Technical Area Engine, Transmission, Exhaust etc
2

 I recently bought a Mk2 1.6, S reg and I’m really pleased with it. The only thing which disappoints is the gearchange, which although accurate with a well defined gate, is heavy the lever is stiff. It does ease up after a few miles but isnt as slick as I imagined it would be. I’m quite handy with doing my own maintenance and will be changing the gearbox oil soon, hopefully this will help.

I’ve seen lots of references on here to changing the turrent oil, wihch looks like an Ok job to do too, is this relevant to MK2’s as well as MK1’s?

Any suggestions gratefully received! [:)]

3

G’day mate

A nice GB full of something like Redline MT-90 will help. The same procedure for doing the turret oil applies to all models except those with a six speed box. Plan on changing the two seals as well.

Here’s a link to the method, complete with part numbers for the seals

http://www.mx5oc.co.uk/forum/forums/t/201.aspx

4

 Thanks for that Geoff, that sounds like a good excuse to hit the garage instead of the shopping mall with the Mrs!

 

[:D]

5

 Changed the shift boots today and the gearchange quality has improved no end. Although not as bad as some photos i’ve seen, both upper and lower boots were cracked, the lower one disintegrating once I’d removed the 3 bolts. The turret was almost empty of oil as I only managed to extract about 20 mls.

The whole job took about an hour to do and was straightforward. Once done I took the 5 for a good blast round some country roads to check the gearchange - RESULT! and a great drive too!