gearbox problem - synchromesh I think

[David]

Recently my gearbox is crunching into third gear. On the up change (2nd to 3rd) it goes in cleanly provided I change below 4,000rpm,but on the down (4th to 3rd) it just crunches in and I'm worried the gearbox in going to die very soon. I have only done 25,000 miles and have not miss treated the gearbox too much. The car is still under warranty and will be taking it to the dealer very soon, but before I do i was wondering whether anyone had any advice as to how to go about dealings with fiat because I have heared they can be assholes when it comes to warranties. They probably say that the fact that I have changed the gearnob has caused the problem.

 

[Matt]

Sounds like the same problem I had on mine, except it did it going from 2nd to 3rd rather than 4th to 3rd (still was very clunky on any movements into 3rd though).

Turned out to be the syncromesh, had Simonstone (Bristol's Fiat and Alfa Romeo dealership) replace it under warrently without any real problems.

I dont see how changing the gear knob would make the syncromesh wear! Stand your ground.

Matt.

 

[Marko]

dealing with FIAT...

suit of armour and a solicitor should see you right.
Seriously, just blag that you ensure the clutch is not depressed when standing in traffic and you don't drive with your hand resting on the gear stick.
If the car is under warranty, they will have to have the GB out to diagnose the problem...this means a fair amount of labour for them and they WILL try to spank you for the money by suggesting you have driven it incorrectly. If thats the case, mention your solicitor, and your mate who works on the editorial team for the local rag, ask where in the drivers handbook it directs you on how to drive the GB 'properly' and see what they say.
I had the GB out in my 1.6 recently, not at FIAT, but the guys replaced the synchro on 2nd gear and it's a big improvement.

Marko

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give me ambiguity or give me something else