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Causes of a Manual Transmission Being Hard to Shift
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When it comes to manual transmissions, a problem with the gear system or the clutch is the most common cause of difficulty shifting. One of the gear system’s parts is either damaged or completely worn out from excessive use.
Here are five of the most common reasons why shifting gears in a manual transmission is difficult.
1. Actuation System Issues
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The clutch system is made up of a number of different parts. A common reason for shifting issues is due to issues with the actuation system which includes air bubbles in the hydraulic system. The actuation system generally comprises the master cylinder, slave cylinder, clutch fork, pivot ball, hydraulic lines and linkages.
If any of these components are damaged or blocked, shifting gears will be difficult.
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2. Gears Have Been Damaged
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Clutch Hydraulic Release Systems. Showing the difference between a semi and fully hydraulic system
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A manual transmission system has a numerous number of gears. There is a first gear, a second gear, a third gear, a fourth gear, a fifth gear, a reverse gear, and in modern vehicles there can also be a sixth gear. There is also a hub gear that connects 1st and 2nd gears, as well as 3rd and 4th gears.
You will have difficulty shifting these gears if any of them become damaged or worn out.
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3. Hub Sleeve Has Been Damaged
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The hub sleeve (or synchronizer hub) is what actually engages the main gears when the hub gear bridges between them. Depending on where the gear has shifted, it can move right or left. The sleeve ensures that the hub gear teeth line up with the teeth of the synchronizer ring.
Synchronization of gears will not be possible if the hub sleeve is worn or damaged. This will result in shifting issues and other issues.
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4. Synchronizer Ring Has Been Damaged
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The synchronizer ring features a large number of small teeth that allow the hub sleeve to easily contact, allowing it to be inserted into one of the main gears.
If the synchronizer ring is damaged or worn, it will be unable to engage with the hub sleeve. As a result, you’ll have problems with shifting.
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5. Low Transmission Fluid or Gear Oil Level
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Flushing and changing your transmission fluid (or gear oil) on a regular basis is essential. If you don’t change your transmission fluid or if you have a transmission fluid leak, your gears won’t get the lubrication they need.
Low transmission fluid is a serious problem that should not be overlooked. This will not only make shifting gears more difficult for you, but it will also harm your gearbox. You will also hear a variety of weird noises coming from it.
How to Repair
Nothing is going to be simple or inexpensive when it comes to the transmission. Low transmission fluid or gear oil will be the most cost-effective problem to address. Also, actuation issues can generally be addressed at a low cost as the transmission does not need to be removed.
One thing is certain: if you wait too long to address the issue that is causing the shifting issues, your transmission will be irreparably destroyed. Allowing this to happen to you is not a good idea. As soon as you notice a problem with your vehicle’s shifting, take it to the local mechanic.
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