98 6Cylinder shift prob.

[d4h8a1]

For a very long time (maybe 2 years) this p.o.s. car has had trouble getting into gear. It started with just first, but now you have to fight to get it into any gear, especially first and third. The problem has to be with wasted syncros, right? Has anyone else had this problem, or know what I should do about it? Is it also normal for the thing to eat clutches? Ive been through a brand new clutch in about 20,000 miles. Help?

[Mike Gerber]

Check the fluid level in the clutch master cylinder. If it is low, fill it back up and then check for leaks. Check the slave for leaks and also check the clutch master for leaks. To check the clutch master for leaks, look for a trail of fluid inside the firewall (on the passenger compartment side). Crawl under the dash and look up toward where the rod from the clutch pedal goes through the firewall. It will leak downward from there, usually under the carpet and pading. If either is leaking, it is best to replace both, but if you are on a tight budget, just replace the one that is leaking and thoroughly bleed the system. If money is really tight and you find a leak you can top the clutch master off and bleed the system and check the fluid level every day. If it's a slow leak you can go for a while like this but eventually it will get worse and will have to be replaced.

Good luck with the problem.

Mike

[Brian R.]

Might just need bleeding and a reservoir fill.