My manual shifter will lock into 6th gear whenever it feels like it. I only shift up to 5th gear now and that tachs out @ 2500 rpm going 80-85 mph but it does use a little more gas without 6th. I did some research and it listed (2) possible causes. A leaking input shaft or worn synchronizer plate, both require trans rebuild or replacement. I've had my Crossfire for 16 years and maintained it in almost pristine condition with just now reaching 80K miles. I'm afraid to have my Euro shop take the trans apart and find out I can't get the parts any longer or purchase a remanufactured one. Anyone else had this issue with their manual shifter?

 

I do not have an answer for you, but a replacement transmission will be a far better option than rebuilding this one. It is also possible that you have a clutch issue that just shows up in 6th gear. When it locks into 6th, what are you doing to get it out?

 

I pull over, turn the vehicle off and push the clutch up and down repeatedly while gently working the shifter until it moves freely, usually takes about 15-20 minutes to get it going again. I have no intentions of rebuilding the trans on this one but if it comes to that I will get an OEM remanned from Zumbrota (vividracing.com) for $3100. Comes with a (2) year warranty.

 

Have you checked the clutch fluid to see if it is low? It is a hydraulic clutch.

 

Sounds less like a transmission issue, and more of a clutch or clutch hydraulic issue. Air on the system, perhaps?

 

I've had the vehicle for 16 years so I wouldn't overlook checking the clutch fluid nor the Euro shop that has serviced all this time but thx for the reminder.

 

I've had the (2) best transmission places in the area and my long time Euro shop test drive the vehicle and they all said the trans and shifter seemed fine but several days after I get it back it will lock in 6th gear, they all claim they can't diagnose the issue until it locks in gear with them. I've been told its the clutch, the trans, a leak in the input shaft, and a worn synchronizer plate. If I replace the trans and still have the problem then it's the clutch or vice versa. In my opinion, there are two options:
(1) Replace the trans & clutch for about $5500 (2) Sell the vehicle for 1/2 it's value so the new owner's purchase price + repairs will equal the current car value.

 

Sounds like you have made up your mind. However, having owned and raced many hydraulic clutch vehicles, I will maintain that this sounds like a lack of clutch disengagement. Typically that is from worn throw out bearings and components, or more typically, air in the hydraulic system. Fluid level is only part of the story.

Second, if a shop is quoting you $5k+ for a replacement transmission for an 18 year old car, it's time to find another shop. Your best bet will be a used transmission and an independent Mercedes shop. These transmissions are very tough, and a used one wouldn't scare me in the least. A new clutch would be a good idea. The whole thing should cost in the neighborhood of $1000-1500, including labor. Much more than that is crowding in on the value of the car.

 

Thx for your help. I haven't decided to do anything yet. The shop quoted me $5K for a trans and a clutch not $5K for just the trans. I think u might be right about this being a clutch/air in the hydraulic system issue. Even a
small leak or air in the hydraulic will cause a shifter to lock in a gear or not shift well.

 

Well I think you could have had that SRT6 by now. No clutch to worry about. But do take the advice of those who have the knowledge of the standard transmissions. $5k is ridiculous.

 

Wonder if he ever resolved the problem ???

 

Well, he's had 9 months.

 

I know this is an old thread. There is a special Crossfire tool to check the shifter linkage adjustment. Just a thought. James