On Fri, 30 Jan 2004 08:45:35 -0500, "M. Ersin Deger" <degerm@purdue.edu>
wrote:

>Hi folks,
>
>I got a 98 Accord LX 4-door with 83K miles. I bought the car last summer
>with 77K on it. I recently have been noticing manual tranny problems..
>indeed for some time, even before it got cold here in Indiana.
>
>The problem is not tranny slipping, since there has never been a case with
>RPMs going up and the speed remaining the same at the same time.
>
>I may describe the problem as a "bony gearbox", somewhat hard shifting
>or gears somewhat grinding.. This is particularly experienced when
>upshifting from 1 to 2 *the most* and also from 2 to 3.. I have noticed
>the problem MOST when upshifting, for it definitely does NOT have any
>problem when you DOWNSHIFT from 3 to 2. Downshifting from 2 to 1 has been a
>problem as well even though at speeds of about 10 MPH.

Quit trying to shift from 2 to 1 at 10mph - the box is not made for it and
frankly I see no need for it. The synchro on 1 is really only there to
provide smooth shifts into 1 when the car is stationary or almost. If you
really insist on 2-1 while still moving, learn to double clutch.

Does it shift 1-2 and 2-3 smoother if you pause briefly in neutral between
the two? How is the clutch and its fluid? You might want to change the
clutch fluid and make sure it's bled properly of any air - Honda has no
scheduled change for this but IMO it *is* important.

>Do you think i need new blocker rings? or new gear cones? or what do you
>think / suggest ?!!

It could be that the synchro rings or cones are a bit worn. Personally
I've never had such problems on high mileage Hondas and if they are worn it
would indicate possible abuse by the previous owner. It's also possible
that the previous owner put the wrong oil in the gearbox - some people
think that since Honda used to recommend engine oil for the purpose, it's
better to use a synthetic engine oil. This is most definitely not the case
and the first thing I'd try in your situation is to replace the oil with
Honda MTF.

Rgds, George Macdonald

"Just because they're paranoid doesn't mean you're not psychotic" - Who, me??