Shifting into gear after start.

GregLast

GregLast

Member
When I start the car, and am ready to shift into either first or reverse, depending on need, I can't seem to get it shifted without grinding a bit. It's not all the time, and I know that sometimes I've let it get turning too quickly to get it shifted into gear.

Most of the time while driving, I can get it to play nice and not grind.

I think it's operator error more than anything. What am I doing wrong?
 
First, verify proper clutch pedal free play adjustment to make sure the disc is not dragging when the pedal is down. Verify by leaving in gear when you come to a stop, keep the pedal down after you shift into neutral. Wait 5-10 seconds and try shifting back into gear. If it grinds, the clutch is not fully releasing.
Second, don't shift into gear as soon as you push the pedal down. Wait a few seconds for the gears to coast to a stop.
Third, put it in gear with the clutch down before you start it (on level ground or the hand brake on). This was a common procedure back in the day.
 
I honestly have no clue what he put in there. He was no slouch when it came to this stuff. One of the best really, but I just can't be sure.

I played with it a little. I think it's a mixture of worn parts and my learning curve.
 
GregLast said:
I honestly have no clue what he put in there. He was no slouch when it came to this stuff. One of the best really, but I just can't be sure.

I played with it a little. I think it's a mixture of worn parts and my learning curve.
Click to expand...

When in doubt change it out!
 
Idle set too high. As mentioned could also be clutch adjustment. And then there are some folks that can't shift a Model A's gears without some grinding. You just have to get the "feel" of your car and its transmission.
 
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