We received this question on a Mitsubishi Gallant 5 speed transmission, however the problem is common to certain other manual transmissions. In most cases the solution is the same. In all cases the diagnosis is done the same way.
Question: I have a Mitsubishi Gallant with a semi-new engine, and just about everything else has replaced. The last thing to fix in the old car is the transmission. It has a 5-spd manual transmission. While driving on the interstate a few weeks ago, the 5th gear would “slip out” and the gearshift would go back to neutral. So to make it home, I had to hold it in 5th position. Eventually it went out completely. I got it home, but then when I wanted to move it out of my garage, I could not put it in reverse. So, both the 5th gear and reverse are no long useable. I’ve contacted some mechanics in my town, and they say that the synchronizers are shot, and that I will need a new transmission. Just wondering what you guys think about the situation, and if you could help.
Answer: Without removing and inspecting the transmission, it is impossible to determine what the problem is over the phone, even if you bring the car closer to the phone. My speculation or guess would be that since 5th gear and reverse use the same shift fork, it is related to the gears themselves, the shift fork and/or the synchronizer assembly itself. The next step and most important part of the decision making process is to decide what transmission shop you want to have the car towed to and have the transmission removed, disassembled and inspected.
Once you can put your eyes on the problem then you can make a decision on what repairs suit you the best. I will warn you that depending on the mileage of the damaged transmission, there may be a lot of other wear in it to deal with. The bottom line on decision making is that number 1. Gears, synchro assemblies and bearing are expensive for this model transmission. Assuming you buy quality parts from the dealer. 2. If the transmission is high mileage, there may be other things getting ready to fail, which in turn may make fixing it or rebuilding it economically unaffordable.
This is where GotTransmissions.com comes in. First off, you will be dealing with a well respected North American transmission supplier with people that know transmissions when you call. Second, they have the experience to advise you properly on what replacement transmission suits your interests best. Third. Their network of suppliers is the largest network of competent transmission replacement suppliers in the world.
With the tools GotTransmissions offers you (our blog) and an unbeatable warranty plan, trust me when I say you won’t need to look any further than this when it comes to your replacement transmission needs.
