The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop SM420 Tranny Problems

I replaced the bad clutch in my 53 with all new components because the clutch wouldn't release.
After re-installing the transmission I left the torque tube disconnected to check out the transmission.
I can shift OK into 2nd, 3rd, and 4th gears with the engine running, but can't shift into first or reverse.
With the engine idling and the transmission out of gear the mainshaft slowly turns at the back of the transmission.
Is this an internal transmission problem, or does the torque tube need to be connected for it to work right in first and reverse?
I can shift into all gears when the engine is shut off.

Jim,

My guess would be that with no resistance on the transmission internals the heavy gear lube is acting as a fluid coupling and driving things. I'll bet if you hook everything up it will work perfectly.

Stuart

I agree with atomarc. Hook it up.

Remember that 1st gear is not synchronized. If the transmission output shaft is moving at all, you won't be able to get into 1st without a hammer and a lot of luck.

As atomarc mentioned, with oil in the transmission. it will act as a hydraulic coupling.

I suspect that it isn't transmitting much torque, but wouldn't try to stop it with my hand.

If you really want to know, wrap lots of cloth around the splines and grab the output shaft with a set of large vice grips. Attach the vice grips to a broom handle that will run into the frame if it turns with any force. Don't use a railroad tie.

What you want to have happen, if all else fails, is the broom handle break and make nasty noises until you put the transmission in neutral. A railroad tie is strong enough to cause expensive things to break.

Guys,
I was able to turn the output shaft freely with the transmission out of gear and engine not running.
I hooked everything back up and the transmission works correctly.
Yesterday was the first time this truck has moved under it's own power in over 15 years.
Now I can move it out of my driveway to someplace inside and warm where I can continue to work on it.

You will wan,t to change the grease in it & the rear end.

Already did both about 2 months ago when it was still warm.
Gotta adjust the pedal free play a little bit though.
I'm just happy that I can finally get it to move under it's own power.

Congratulations on the movement! :-)

I second the congrats . . . the joy of a truck moving on its own power after months/years, can sure carry you through a lot of rough spots and down time (or so I'm told!). Keep up the good work!!!



-Michael

Right on glad to hear it, was watching this with interest - glad all is well.