Hi.

Just after some thoughts. Fabia 1.4 16v 2000 model with ~75k on clock. 3rd gear has become increasingly difficult to engage over the past 18 months or so, to the point where maybe 1 in 3 gearchanges require me to hold the lever in position for a second or so on changing.

I figured that 3rd synchromesh is gone, although interestingly, I don't think that double declutching helps - is that cos the baulk mechanism's knacked and stopping it going in?

Now, 4th is also becoming tricky to engage (different to 3rd as it is hard to actually throw the lever into position). Is there anything worth checking before I assume it's the gearbox internals? Like linkage? How?

Assuming that 3rd synchro is gone, what is my best option? I have heard that stripping down a gearbox is just not something you do unless you're a professional. Do reconditioned gearboxes come on a swap basis and at what sort of price? Or is it better to get one from a scrappy (although reluctant as I've heard other people with this problem so presumably not rare). Or is it best to just take the box out and take it to a transmission specialist?

Cheers

Rob

I had problems with my car, which has the same enigne and gearbox. It spat out of 1st sometimes, wouldn't go into 3rd, and 5th needed you to be very precise to engauge. I took it back to the garage and they re-alligined the linkages and changed the oil which transformed the box. Maybe worth trying this as it will certainly be cheaper than a new box, but then again, if it is the snycro, I doubt it will make any difference.

Linkage can be checked and adjusted, but method depends on the gearbox code number. There's a locking tool that locks the gearstick in exact neutral position. Then you push down selector on top of the gearbox, and twist in the built in locking pin (design varies)

Then the cables are adjusted. Can be done DIY, but you need the Skoda service manual for the gearbox in use.

If it turns out to be the syncro, rebuild by a specialist is risky, unless you know their quality of work. It's all too easy to end up with a gearbox that howls if it's not rebuilt properly.

Low mileage box from a scrappy would be my choice.

Is it possible to re align a vRS box do ya know? 1st into 2nd has never been very smooth on mine (not imposiable, just a bit notchy) but if you pop out of 1st in to neutral and then into second all with clutch down then it is nice and smooth so is almost like 1st and 2nd just aren't lined up quite right.

Is it possible to re align a vRS box do ya know? 1st into 2nd has never been very smooth on mine (not imposiable, just a bit notchy) but if you pop out of 1st in to neutral and then into second all with clutch down then it is nice and smooth so is almost like 1st and 2nd just aren't lined up quite right.

Yes same process as above, except it will be a 02M or 0A8 six speed gearbox. Notchy 1st and 2nd is quite common though.