Ken Abrahamsen wrote:

> I have a 1987 Manual Transmission Accord DX with 220,000 miles on the
> original clutch (bought the car new). Although the book value of the car's
> not too much, I'm trying to see if it's reasonable to put a clutch in and
> have it last about another 3 years, until I can afford to replace the car.
> The engine's fine, and has started for me almost without fail over the last
> 17 years - a *very* reliable car.
>
> So, is there a easy, reliable way to test the transmission/gears to see if
> replacing the clutch would be a waste due to a so-to-be-failing
> transmission/gears?
>
> Sometimes it's hard to shift, but I've noticed that *sometimes* if I pump
> the clutch, it will go into gear (if it's one of those times it's being
> stubborn about not wanting to go into gear). Sometimes it will partially go
> into gear and then if I keep the pressure on the stick shift, it will slide
> in the rest of the way. I don't mind spending about $1000 on the car if I'll
> give me another 3 years or so of reliable operation. $333/year isn't much
> over a 3 year period - and sure beats a new car payment at this point in my
> life. Other than the clutch, the front suspension could also stand some work
> (ride's a little 'bouncy' - replace *original* front struts?).
> Thanks for you hints and tips!
> Ken

I'm really new to manual transmissions, so I can only give you an
opinion. Before changing the clutch, try changing the transmission fluid
with Honda MTF. Avoid regular 10w30 oil, (I can use it in my 01 Prelude
but it's not recommended) or other fluids that cheap shops use. If there
is anything wrong with the transmission, you'll know it for sure if it
still has problems with fresh fluid. If it does, it may be the shift
fork, but at this point I'm guessing... But it's not the parts that are
very expensive when repairing a transmission, it's the labour. If you
decide to replace the clutch it shouldn't be much more expensive to
repair the gear box at the same time.

And the front struts may well need replacing, since they are 17 years
old the seals are probably pretty worn and leaking. But if they lasted
this long and you can live with the bouncier suspension, they probably
do not need replacing right away.

Cosmin