Clutch cylinder(s) or synchros?

[D-3vil]

I've had this problem for a while. Given my recent arrival in the world of stick driving, I'm having some trouble diagnosing it.

Every time I start up my '93 240 in the morning (after a night of cold weather in Toronto), I experience trouble shifting. This only happens when shifting into 2nd and 3rd, but I'm starting to feel it a little bit when shifting into 4th the first time after I start the car.

Basically, the shift lever will resist (1) pulling it from first gear (unless I stop the car completely, which defies all purpose), (2) shifting into 2nd from 1st (goes in very rough, usually grinds at first, then, as I keep driving, the problem subsides, though it doesn't really dissappear), (3) same problems when shifting into 3rd from 2nd (though not quite as bad); (4) this problem I've only noticed recently: I'm not able to shift back into 1st if the car is moving (ie it requires a great deal of effort).

I find it interesting that my gears stop grinding and it is even easier to shift up into 2nd and 3rd when double clutching. Also, when shifting down, the problem isn't nearly as bad (almost non-existent, which is why I'm not so sure it's the synchros).

I should also mention that, once I get the car on the highway, and drive it for about 10 minutes, most of these problems seem to go away (save for shifting into 2nd and 3rd, though even this is much improved -- I still hear some slight clunking).

So far, I've been to 2 mechanics, and both of them told me I had no problem. Of course, by the time I got to the shop, the car had already warmed up. Still, I've changed my transmission oil (I don't think it was ever changed), and put in Castrol Hypoy 80W90 + 1L of LucasOil transmission additive (the red jelly like liquid).

If you find the patience to read through all of this, and are able to help, please do. It would be very much appreciated. Also, I'd like to know, in case of repairs, roughly how much it would actually cost (ballpark estimate). I'm terrified at having to spend to much on this, seeing as to how I don't have too much money at the moment.

Regards,Alex L.

P.S.: Does the fact that my clutch pedal has recently started squeaking have anything to do with this? ...

[240junker]

I could be your clutch cylinder, have you been losing any clutch fluid, even if very slowly? Even if it is not the clutch cyl. it is very easy and cheap to install a new one. The Chilton Manual outlines the procedure, it should take about 20 - 30 min from start to finish. If that does not solve your problem get ready to spend some real money.

[BACKTHATFASTUP]

I don't think chilton makes a repair manual for the 240.

[macdaddy]

yes chilton makes a manual for the 240 Im looking at one as I write this the # is 52752

[eniety]

It doesn't sound like it is your clutch hydraulics (master or slave). How does your clutch feel?

It sounds more like bad syncros to me. How is reverse?

[Lepchitz1]

bad sincros....its gotta be. Im putting a new transmission in tomorrow cause mine are gone in just about every gear. You can get a transmission with 30-50k miles for around 300 dollars.

[red240ne]

You can get a transmission with 30-50k miles for around 300 dollars.

WHAT?!! you've gotta be shiitting me dude. the salvage yard where i live wants 200 for one w/125k mi. they always seem to be a ripoff though.

[Luke]

I've just started getting this grind in 2nd gear, but it goes away after i shift once or twice to 2nd. It started happening after i changed the gear oil with Redline MT90 and when teh weather got really cold. I was thinkin the oil is too thick, but what do i know.

[silvsx]

I have the same prob, but it has been drastically reduced since i installed a new transmission mount. You may want to check your clutch pedal height adjustment and make sure they are to spec also.

[bruinbear714]

I have the exact same problem with my transmission and I'm using the redline shockproof oil...

The problem goes away after the engine is warmed up though.

[Sygerwulf]

It's the syncros. 240's are prone to having worn syncros quickly. Mine does it too for the first 2 shifts, then stops.