G288 Manual Transaxle: Description: Notes
| 1 - GEARTRAIN HOUSING | 5 - OUTPUT SHAFT |
| 2 - CLUTCH HOUSING | 6 - DIFFERENTIAL ASSEMBLY |
| 3 - REVERSE SHAFT | 7 - END COVER |
| 4 - INPUT SHAFT |
The Getrag 288 5-speed transaxle is a constant-mesh transaxle that is synchronized in all gear ranges. See Fig 1.
The transaxle consists of four major sub-assemblies: the input shaft (4), output shaft (5), reverse shaft (3), and integral differential assembly (6). The transaxle is of a split-case design, utilizing a geartrain housing (1) and clutch housing (2) to contain as well as support the geartrain via a combination of roller and needle bearings.
The transaxle shift system consists of a mechanical shift mechanism, shift rails and forks, and gear shift cables. The unique design of this shift system provides a higher mechanical advantage, resulting in less friction and lower shift cable loads for smoother, more positive operation.
The shift pattern shown here. See Fig 2.
The Getrag 288 transaxle is available with the 2.2L Turbo Diesel and 2.4L Turbo Engine options. Its gear ratios are as follows:
| GEAR | RATIO | |
| 2.2L DIESEL | 2.4L TURBO | |
| 1st | 4.25 : 1 | 3.92 : 1 |
| 2nd | 2.35 : 1 | 2.21 : 1 |
| 3rd | 1.46 : 1 | 1.46 : 1 |
| 4th | 1.03 : 1 | 1.11 : 1 |
| 5th (Overdrive) | 0.79 : 1 | 0.88 : 1 |
| Reverse | 3.81 : 1 | 3.62 : 1 |
| Final Drive Ratio (FDR) | 3.29 : 1 | 3.29 : 1 |