w203 Manual Gearbox problem

[Mr_Vi]

hi there, im relatively new here, and would like to say this is a great forum for information. well i have a 52plate c180k coupe with an 6speed manual gearbox, i'm not sure wheather this is a problem or not, but when i step on the clutch and try to put it in gear, its not smooth at all, i have to use a little bit of force on it to shift it into gear. if i was to shift into 1st or 2nd gear it won't just go in at all unless i put some force on it. any help is apprieciated. thx.

 

[David Nock]

My first step would be an oil change with full synthetic gear oil. The level might be low as well. Full synth oil will help gearchanges and the overall transmission smoothness.
Then I'd see if its a cable clutch - I had a C180 manual but can't remember. If so check the cable adjust.
If hydraulic clutch then bleeding of system next.
If all that fails it may be worn synchros/damage in the box.
My C180 was a 2001 with no gearbox problems, but I seem to remember that some of the 6 speeds did give problems.

 

[television]

As David worn syncro can do it,,yours is quite a late car so the oil level will not cause it

 

[Mr_Vi]

forgot to mention the mileage is currently on 43k. how much you reckon it would cost to fix it. thx.

 

[panason1c]

I would first check out the (hydraulic) clutch operation, if the clutch is not releasing fully when you press the pedal down then you will get 'drag' which will cause your symptoms.

Does the pedal have a 'spongy' feel?, if it does, bleed the system.


Check that a rug or carpet, is not preventing the pedal's full travel.




Try rapidly and repeatedly pumping the clutch pedal (full travel) followed by immediately keeping the pedal depressed and then see if the gear is easily selected......if it is then that would point to a 'air in the system' problem rather than worn syncros.

 

[David Nock]

forgot to mention the mileage is currently on 43k. how much you reckon it would cost to fix it. thx.

Indie Prices---
Oil change say £50
Bleed Hydraulics say £50
Fix hydraulics if faulty, say £100 if Master Cylinder OK.
Gearbox Rebuild say £2000
I've no idea really because I do most things myself. Maybe an indie on here might advise better.

 

[Xtractorfan]

I would tend to agree with panasonic a dragging ..or not fully disengaging clutch will cause the gears to snatch on selection, it should be more noticable on the lower gears and especially on selecting reverse..