2001 Sport Trac Manual Trans. - Synchronizer Trouble?

[Evan6ardner]

My 2001 Sport Trac has actually made it to 150,000 miles.

It is a 5spd (or 4 w/ overdrive).

I've noticed that when I accelerate in 2nd gear and go to shift in 3rd, I'll have to pause until the RPMs drop back down to 2000-2500. If it is 3000 and above, I will not be able to shift.

It was my assumption that this is indicative of some bearings failing in one of the synchronizers. Is this somewhat manageable to replace or do I just drive the car like it is babying the 2nd to 3rd gear transition?



Also, like many people, at 100,000 miles I had issues with my master/slave cylinders. It became difficult to shift and eventually impossible. Now at 150,000 miles, it seems harder to shift in the morning for the first 5-10 minutes. That is a little odd if you ask me. Does this seem weird?

 

[bdmaash]

do you have synthetic oil in the transmission? cold (not so viscous) oil may be the issue - for cold shifting.
Try some new oil (synthetic) and see if anything changes.

 

[Evan6ardner]

My engine oil is Castrol GTX High Mileage, and...I'm ashamed to say when I changed my transmission fluid about 8,000 miles ago, I used Pennzoil Dexron III/ATF or whatever was called for. Though, my car exhibited this behavior even before the fluid change.

So, you are recommending a synthetic transmission fluid? Any particular type or brand?


Thanks,
Evan