1998 escort shifting proplems

[fuzzr]

I have a 1998 escort manuel 5 speed that sometimes will not shift into any gear! I have noticed that if I cut the car off and then crank it again it will shift normally for a while. I have also noticed that with the car running in neutral that I hear no noise in transmission but when I put it in any gear I hear a noise like fluid running in the transmission! I was going to check the oil in transmission but can not find where to check it!
I would be most thankful for any help on this issue!

Sam

[A. Souphound]

Originally Posted by fuzzr

I have a 1998 escort manuel 5 speed that sometimes will not shift into any gear! I have noticed that if I cut the car off and then crank it again it will shift normally for a while. I have also noticed that with the car running in neutral that I hear no noise in transmission but when I put it in any gear I hear a noise like fluid running in the transmission! I was going to check the oil in transmission but can not find where to check it!
I would be most thankful for any help on this issue!

Sam

I suggest checking the fluid transaxle and the clutch master cylinder level first, if this doesn't cure the problem, look at the shift linkage for binding or slop.
The car should be level on jackstands or rack.
The filler plug is located on the upper front (driver's side) of the transaxle. The filler plug can be removed with either a 9/16 wrench or 3/8 rachet and extension depending on the type of plug. The oil level shoud be within 1/4" of the hole. I believe the fluid used is Motorcraft automatic transmission fluid ATF - Type F but check your owner's manual to be sure. A rubber bulb syringe or a turkey baster can be used to add lubricant.

[fuzzr]

Thank you
I will check this out tomorrow.

[chevyn0va1]

Originally Posted by A. Souphound

I suggest checking the fluid transaxle and the clutch master cylinder level first, if this doesn't cure the problem, look at the shift linkage for binding or slop.
The car should be level on jackstands or rack.
The filler plug is located on the upper front (driver's side) of the transaxle. The filler plug can be removed with either a 9/16 wrench or 3/8 rachet and extension depending on the type of plug. The oil level shoud be within 1/4" of the hole. I believe the fluid used is Motorcraft automatic transmission fluid ATF - Type F but check your owner's manual to be sure. A rubber bulb syringe or a turkey baster can be used to add lubricant.

a note here on my 1999 escort the clutch master cylinder is one with the brake master cylinder. If you cant find where it is look at the brake master cylinder located on the drivers side firewall.