[praxis]

Hi everyone,

Two days ago, my 2005, blue insight suddenly started grinding everytime I shift to 2nd gear. There was no progressive sound that got worse over time. The grinding noise suddenly started half way out my driveway.

The transmission grinds from any gear ratio to 2nd (5 to 2, 3 to 2, 1 to 2, ect). Once in 2nd, the transmission never pops out. Double clutching does not help. The transmission will shift more smoothly (not so much grind), if the RPM is below 1000.

I don't know much about cars (this is my first car). My father, who does, suggested that the 2nd gear synchos may no longer be floating.

If anyone has some insights, it would be great if you could share

 

[Willie Williford]

praxis
If you include your location in your profile, someone close by.......may help.

 

[Mario]

Are you sure you're double-clutching correctly? I thought it didn't work on my car at first, but it turns out I was doing it wrong.

With the transmission in neutral, let the clutch out and rev the engine. You need to get the RPMs ABOVE what they would be at that speed in second. Then quickly press the clutch back in and shift into second.

For example, if you're going 25mph and want to downshift into second, you would do this:
Clutch in
Transmission in neutral
Clutch out
rev to 3k rpm (definitely above what it would be at 25mph, so good)
Clutch in
Shift into second before the revs drop.

If this doesn't work, you probably have some other issue than just a worn-out synchro (which sounds like it may be the case).

 

[samwichse]

Check the fluid in your clutch reservoir if it started suddenly.

You may be low enough that your clutch isn't _quite_ disengaging.

If it's low check seepage from the master cylinder... it's a common problem with I1s

 

[TRI]

Shifting from 5th to 2nd is very hard on the synchros of the 2nd. If you do it as a Habit the synchros wear out.

 

[praxis]

Mario:

That is how I double clutch. For cross reference purposes, I followed your advice per instructions and the shift to second gear still grinds.

samwichse:

I looked at the MTF and the Cluch fluid levels. Both checked ok.

I generally always double clutch when I down shift to second for regen. I have done some research on these forums that suggest possibly the clocking tabs in the synchomesh have frozen togeather. Looks like a project for a rainy weekend.

The car is still usable when I don't use second gear.