226 Manual Drive Trains and Axles Copyright by Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Selector lever and cable Shift lever and cable Binding shift cable Linkage needs lubrication Bent shift arm Faulty sensor or switch Cracked case Damaged select arm Broken or weak selector return spring Shift rail or fork problem Worn bearing Worn or damaged synchronizers Worn or damaged gears Figure 11-1. This figure illustrates some of the problems that can affect a typical manual transaxle. These problems can be diagnosed using logical troubleshooting techniques. Note that the selector cable transmits right and left movements of the gearshift lever to the shift forks. The shift cable transmits fore and aft movements of the gearshift lever. (Honda) Introduction Since most cars and some trucks use front-wheel drive, manual transaxles are common. Manual transaxles come in varying designs, with four, five, or six forward gears. The modern automotive technician should know how to diag- nose and repair the different kinds of manual transaxles. This chapter is a general guide to manual transaxle diagnosis and repair. Building on the knowledge you gained from previous chapters, the information in this chapter will help you understand the transaxle diagnostic information contained in the manufacturer’s service information. If you study the information presented here, you will know the general techniques for servicing all types of manual trans- axles. Figure 11-1 shows typical transaxle problems. Study them carefully. Manual Transaxle Problems and Troubleshooting If you do not know what is wrong with a transaxle, how can you fix it? You must become skilled at finding out what the problem is before beginning repairs. This section is designed to make transaxle troubleshooting easier. Since transaxles consist of mechanical parts, most manual transaxles wear out eventually. Often, this is because of high vehicle mileage. Sometimes, however, transaxles require repair at low mileage because of careless driving habits. For example, changing gears too quickly, downshift- ing at high speeds, or releasing the clutch pedal before gears are completely engaged can damage the transaxle. These actions can chip or break teeth on the transaxle transmis- sion gears or damage the synchronizers.