TR2/3/3A Gear shift pops out of 2nd gear sometimes?

[karls59tr]

Is this typically a gearbox "top cover" issue? If so are replacing the springs and detent balls a DIY job? What to look out for when upgrading a worn gearbox top cover?

 

[CJD]

Yes, it's not that hard, just a little fiddly with the balls and rods. But the second gear problem could also be a broken top hat bearing, which requires the main shaft to come out to fix. Try the detent first, and if that doesn't work, then the top hat is the problem.

 

[karls59tr]

"Yes, it's not that hard, just a little fiddly with the balls and rods. But the second gear problem could also be a broken top hat bearing, which requires the main shaft to come out to fix. Try the detent first, and if that doesn't work, then the top hat is the problem a problem of the detent ball or the spring being worn." I'm running a TR6 box in my 3. I read one article about this that shows some kind of a spring tensioning tool to test the spring rate with. Apparently there has been some changes in the springs thru the gearbox range. I was hoping to just order new TR6 springs and install them but I'm not even sure the top cover is from a TR6? Were the top covers interchangeable? The TR6 gearbox is synchromesh for 1st gear....would that change the spring rate?

 

[CJD]

I'm not that versed on the TR6 box. I do know that the throw is farther for the synchro 1st box, which requires a different shift rod for 1-2 gears. Other than that I thought the covers were interchangeable...but like I said, I'm not that versed with the TR6 cover.

 

[Hamish Racing]

Can be just the rubber cover gator getting in the way and preventing full engagement?

 

[DocDup1]

I just had the gearbox and overdrive in my TR4A rebuilt by a great guy. During the process, he explained everything to me and demonstrated how each component works. In my case, the problem was due to an assembly problem by the prior owner. There are a couple of common causes for popping out of second. The easiest to fix is to make sure that the shift lever is fully seating in second gear. Check the boot and anything else that is in the way. Next is the adjustment inside the top cover. If those don't solve the problem, you will need to pull the gearbox. The top hat bushing is a common problem, and Rimmer Brothers offers an updated version.

Rich