ax15 hard shift into 2nd

[KevinP]

When its cold outside I cant shift into 2nd gear until I have driven for several miles. I changed the fluid and it didnt change the way it shifts. It hasn't been a big issue over the summer but the weather is getting colder again and I'm not looking forward to driving this winter. The trans also doesn't like to downshift either. Does anyone else have these problems? I was searching the subject on line and from what I hear these are normal quirks of an ax15. I also heard that Pennzoil synchromesh works on making it easier to shift. I dont think that Pennzoil synchromesh is recommended for the ax15 but people are saying it works. Have any of you heard of it or tried it?

[mrfreakinwhite]

I've experienced this with every ax15 I've owned, in some gear or another. They enjoy a reputation for being notchy anyway.
The oil should say 'yellow metal safe' and I like Redline MT oil.

I've seen forums recommend straight up gear oil and even 10-30 motor oil. I wouldn't.

Knowing the clutch is working properly and the hydraulics that operate it helps.
Checking the condition of your oil, especially checking for the presence of metal, is important.
Depending on how much metal is in the oil, it might be time for a quality rebuild.

[Kurt]

Knowing the clutch is working properly and the hydraulics that operate it helps.

Agreed

Does it grind at all or is it difficult to shift into reverse while a a dead stop?

[Frank]

Its his first to second upshift when first leaving in the morning. No grinding just sluggish to make the shift. Like something is in the way. It shifts better as the tranny warms up but never really goes away. Down shifting is the same ,no grinding but difficult when cold. I told him he shouldnt be d-shifting to first anyway. Like approaching a stop sign. Fluid is okay and level is good. Its a 95 and original to the vehicle. FjR68

[mrfreakinwhite]

I honestly expect them to shift like this when they're in good shape!

[DDewar53]

Mine was always tough to shift when cold, and the colder it gets the harder it is.

The Pennzoil Synchromesh fluid (GL-3) is what's recommended. It's formulated for yellow metals - which is what the synchro rings in that transmission are made from. You really shouldn't use anything else.

http://www.jeepsunlimited.com/forums/sh ... X-15-Story

[mrfreakinwhite]

Redline MT90, full synthetic, GL-4 75W-90 is what I've used - but usually after it is too late.
Most of my AX-15s start life with me at 200k miles. The one I have now is at 156k miles, but the fluid in it has a lot of metal already. When it blows, I'll rebuild it UNLESS I get into an automatic equipped XJ this spring.

[KevinP]

Thanks for the advice.