Hi all, new to the board and Crossfire ownership...LOVE THIS CAR!

One question tho, I bought mine used; an '04 w/ 10k miles on it...I am experiencing an occasional resistance to first gear and reverse from a stationary position. it is most pronounced when it has been parked for any amount of time over 10 minutes or so. Seriously, sometimes it takes some real pushing and pulling to get it in gear. No grinding or any telltale noise that would suggest a real problem.

Clutch seems fine and the gears are relatively smooth shifting except for this, any ideas or is this normal?

Thanks in advance.

C&J

 

I've never had any issues getting my car into any particular gear.

 

I've had this problem off and on for a while - tough to get into first or reverse after it's been sitting. I shift into second, then into first or reverse. Works every time for me.

 

I agree. It will be easier to go into third then second then first. The problem is that the synchronizers are going bad. They get a little out of whack for some reasons. This has lead to grinding between gears and popping out of first. It's a progressively worsening situation.

 

I don't think it's a case of the synchros going bad. Actually, I'm pretty sure they don't even come into play when the transmission and the engine aren't both turning. That's why most older cars didn't even have synchronizers for 1st & reverse - you only shifted into those gears from a standstill. I've driven sticks for 30 years, and have experienced this problem on many cars.

Either way, the 'second to first' or second to reverse' move should take care of it.

 

Believe me I've had it diagnosed at three different dealerships. The only problem is that they didn't have the tools to get the job done. Now it's turned into a bigger problem so they have to replace the trans.

 

put it in first first then try and reverse.

 

There is a TSB on the first gear syncro having problems (on the 04's, not sure about other years) that Chrysler will replace. I had mine done a little over a week ago. The downside is, your having Chrysler techs working on a Mercedes transmission. After I got my car back, 2nd gear had developed a knocking noise the next day. Needless to say, it's back in the dealership getting this problem resolved.
I do have to say, that the service department has been very helpful, even giving me a car to drive while mine is being repaired.

 

Thanks Squint;

Just called my dealership and it goes in on Friday for the syncro and foggy headlight issue.

-C&J