[A.Cadenas]

Re: balky shift action when cold

Sorry. My internet connection is fouled up. I was asking if anyone else has had difficulty getting their cars (manual transmission) to shift into first gear and reverse when cold.

 

[chris06fusion]

Re: balky shift action when cold

My wifes 01 cougar is hard to shift when its cold.

 

[dirkafusion]

Re: balky shift action when cold

ya it is a little harder at first but then once it starts to warm up it ok. I noticed it was fairly noisy when i first started up, i was wondering if it was just the cheap oil that ford puts in it and doesnt hack the cool cool weathere so well

 

[bbf2530]

Re: balky shift action when cold

  Hi A.Cardenas.  This is not an unusual condition for a manual transmission (even after the break in period) in cold weather.  My last five cars, before the MKZ, were 5 speed manuals (3 Mustang GT's and two newer Cougars).  All five of them would be a little harder to shift before they were warmed up.  Whether it is a Manual or an Automatic, they need a proper warm up period (as much as 20 minutes) before things will flow smoothly.
  Now, please keep in mind, the following paragraph is just for general information, and is directed at no one in particular, since I do not know anyone's driving habits other than mine and my wife's :shock:.  We need to let the engine and transmission properly warm up when the car has been sitting for a cold period.  Also, we need to shift properly to avoid premature wear and tear on the synchro's and gears.  That includes a momentary pause between moving from one gear to another (as it states in the Owners Manual), to allow the synchro's to do their job.  And one more reminder, our everyday cars cannot be "slam shifted" and driven as though they are in a scene from "The Fast and The Furious".  This is real life, and our car's will not last long if driven like they are race cars.  Hell, even if you watch "Pinks", most of those cars are dedicated, purpose built drag cars, and look how often they break transmissions, blow engines, or drop oil, coolant and trans fluids all over the track.  
  Anyway, sorry for the long post and the "treat our cars nice" preaching.  Good luck with the new car! 

 

[cos]

Re: balky shift action when cold

Nope, mine shifts pretty well when cold. Now I haven't experienced any temps near 0 F yet but that is mighty cold and I don't expect any manual, especially one filled with a 75W90 (as is ours) in it to be slick shifting until it warms up.

If you live in an area that gets very cold you could always refill your trans with a light gear oil such as a 75W85, full synthetic of course - e.g. Specialty Formulations, Redline, Amsoil.