Well, here's the scoop.
I went ahead and changed the transmission lube today after I drove it about 15 miles to get the transmission as warm as possible. I took it in the shop and let it drain while it was still warm. That stuff was like tar and just as black.
While it was draining or should I say oozing out, I change the oil and filter thermostat and some other regular maintenance things that I have been putting off. When all was drained out, I left it sit in the drain and decided to see what it was like cold. I took a broken broom handle and tried to stir the crud and the stick stood straight up. I could not hardly stir the oil (or whatever it was) AH! no wonder I couldn't get it into gear.
On cleaning out the case with anything, I just decided NOT to. I went ahead and put in the new gear lube. I used a Mystic gear lube 80/90 weight. I will run it until next Spring and change it again. Speaking of that, any good ideas on re-filling? I had one hell of a mess with lube everywhere! I tried using a small hand pump, that was worthless. Then tried using a funnel with a hose through the battery box compartment, another stupid plan. MORE MESS!
Well anyhow, Hedgehog posted where others have said where water has entered their transmissions and it could have been freezing. Like him, I thought well I didn't know how water could get into the transmission, but heck anything is possible. On my 8N that was the case, but I'm sure it entered through the rubber gear shift lever boot. I guess maybe on my truck it could have been condensation over all the years. I think my problem here, was just really, really nasty thick gear lube.
I left it sit for several hours in the cold and so far, so good. It shifted real smooth with no trouble going in or out of any gears. Tomorrow morning will be the real test. Holding my breath and going to knock on some wood
Thanks for the advice guys.
John
