Pinpoint Test E: Transmission Difficult To Shift

• Lubricant 
  • Check the transmission fluid level and condition. Refer to the fluid level and condition check in this procedure.
  • Add fluid or drain and fill with specified lubricant as necessary. REFER to: Transmission Draining and Filling 

• Transmission external controls 
  • Check the adjustment of the gearshift cables. Adjust as necessary. REFER to: Gearshift Cable Adjustment
  • Disconnect the gearshift cables from the gearshift lever. If the gearshift lever is difficult to move with the gearshift cables disconnected, install a new gearshift lever. REFER to: Gearshift Lever
  • Connect the gearshift cables to the gearshift lever, and disconnect them from the transmission. If the gearshift lever is now difficult to operate, install new gearshift cables. REFER to: Gearshift Cables

• Pilot bearing 
  • Check for a binding condition between the input shaft and the engine crankshaft pilot bearing or bushing. If there is any binding, install a new pilot bearing. REFER to: Pilot Bearing

• Loose pressure plate to flywheel bolts 
  • Check for loose bolts at the pressure plate. Install new components as necessary.

• Internal shift mechanism 
  • Check the internal shift mechanism for smooth operation. If operation is not smooth, disassemble the transmission. Inspect the shift shaft assembly, shift rails, and gear shift interlock for wear, damage, and proper installation. Repair or install new components as necessary.

• Sliding gears, synchronizers 
  • Check for free movement of gears and synchronizers. If there is any binding, inspect the gears and synchronizers for wear or damage. Repair or install new components as necessary.

Possible Sources 

• Lubricant
• Gearshift cable adjustment
• Gearshift cables
• Gearshift lever
• Internal shift mechanism
• Sliding gears, synchronizers
• Housings, shafts
• Loose pressure plate to flywheel bolts

Diagnostic steps are not provided for this symptom or DTC. REFER to: Diagnostic Methods