Transmission problems I think

[aikiwaza]

I have a 87 Toyota Tercel wagon... 4x4 manual tranny.

Just recently i noticed that the clutch seemed to be a little looser than normal... the next day I went to start it and the shifter won't shift into any of the gears. When trying to go into reverse it grinds a little and won't catch (at least not with what I have done, I don't want to force it at all..) Is there anything that I should check... I'm not car ignorant but the more clear and exact the better...

Also where can I check my tranny fluid... I can't seem to find any of the drain points at all or the tranny case that is supposed to house the gear oil... then again it is the oldest car I have owned...

Any help is appreciated

[uti-student]

a possibility out of the blue could be the shift linkage my girlfriends ford escort car did that and had to raplace linkage.just a possibility with ur problem. good luck

[LedSled]

I can't believe it. I am having the exact same problem! This is on my 89 tercel hatchback but it's the same issue! I need to use all my force to push this thing into any gear, and it grinds in reverse. My friend/mechanic told me to check the shift arm bushings for wear as the y will totally bind up sometimes, but they are fine. When the car is not running, it shists FINE. not to mention the clutch pedal feels really loose. Can anybody offer som more help!!!!!
-Colin

[97cavalier]

check your clutch fluid, and if your clutch is soft, you might want to bleed and change you clutch slave cylender and if the clutch is more firm but still grinds, it is most likely the clutch is going out.

[LedSled]

Thanks 97Cavalier. I checked the slave cylinder, and it appears to be shot, so I'll replace it on the weekend! Thanks again,
-Colin

[97cavalier]

yep,no problem, and make shure you bleed the system real good when you do that,you don't want any air in there.

[LedSled]

Hey 97cavalier, do you have any instructions or links to instructions on bleeding the system? This is my first time doing it, and I want to make sure I get it done right! Thanks in advance,
-Colin

[97cavalier]

i do not sorry, only reason i know some about toyota is because my brother has onn and i used to have a supra. Go to local parts stor and they should tell you how. good luck.