My transmission keeps jumping out of 3rd gear. I think the syncronizer is going bad. After looking through the shop manual instructions it looks like I can do just about all of it with regular tools except one. It shows mounting the transmission in a vise type mounting and using a special left-hand threaded tool to initially dissassemble the transmission. How can I do this. Also, how hard is it to rebuild one of these transmissions?

On a different note, where can I get the parts for one of these (gears, syncronizer, etc.)?

Mike

Generally when the trans jumps out of third on a three speed it is the needle bearings between the pilot and main shafts allowing it to wiggle just a little. The bushing at the back of the tail shaft may also be worn. There a number of parts houses that will sell you parts. I use Portland Trany in Portland OR. Ask for a small parts kit and a gasket kit. Make sure it includes most if not all of the needle bearings and bushings. You will also need snap ring pliers, a hammer, and a BRASS drift pin. When reassembling use grease to hold the needle bearings in place before re-inserting the shafts. Compare all parts before replacing. I once got a kit that had slightly different syncronizer detent clips and when I put it together and ran the truck it would stick in third gear. It was a truck 4 speed. If you do not have a manual that describes the disassembly in detail go down to the local library and they should have a manual you can photocopy.

I talked with Portland. They have the bearings and gaskets but cannot find a syncronizer for the sm318 transmission. Do any of yall know where I could get the part or what to do about another transmission (what type and where can I find one)? Would it be a good idea to get one from a junk yard?

Mike

Hello, was the trans grinding or hard to shift into second or third? If the answer is no then I wouldn't worry about it. You may want to upgrade to one with overdrive. Look around at the next swap meet, you should be able to pick one fairly reasonable. It may need to be re-built just like the one you are working on might.

It isn't hard to shift it just doesn't like to stay in 3rd. I would hate to to get stuck with only a 2 speed. You mentioned a transmission with overdrive, what type would fit and where could I get one?

Mike