Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General Troubleshooting grinding sound when putting it into 1st

I used to be able to smoothly go into first gear when I was going less than 5 mph in my 96 contour (about 110k miles) but recently when I try to put it into first at this speed I am met with a sharp grinding.

Grinding also sometimes occurs when trying to put it into first from a stop. I solve this problem by sliding the stick into second before attempting to put it in first (this seems to make the process smoother). Once the stick gets into 1st I can put it back in neutral and then go smoothly back to first with no problems. If I take it out of first,put it into neutral, let out the clutch, clutch in again, and try to go back to first, it will grind again.

sorry for making this seem a lot more complex than it probably is. I have very limited car knowledge (as I'm sure you have realized) and would really appreciate any feedback.

My car does that when it's cold outside, if that helps at all

Synchros are a weak spot on the MTX-75, and though usually 3rd gear, 1st is a culprit as well.. I am currently going through the same thing, and as a temporary ease to the problem (note: EASE, not fix) you can start with a tranny fluid cycle..


At those miles, I wouldn't recommend a complete flush, but instead pull the drain plug, and drain what will come out, then refill with new fluid (fill till spill)(redline MTF, others, etc, etc)
drive it for two or so weeks, and then repeat the process..


Do this two or three times in total, and you will have accumulated a "mostly new" set of fluid, and you will notice an almost instant change in shifter feel... Look up the synchro grind in the main page faq for more details.

Ray