Hi all

I found you while looking for help with my 98 Felicia gearbox. I've lost 1st gear and 2nd is grinding, but I'll post in the Classic sub-forum about that. I just thought I'd introduce myself first.

My mechanical expertise extends to changing tyres, batteries, wipers, bulbs, that sort of stuff, so not great at all. I am, however, in desperate need of help because my Felicia is the only transport I have, and I can't afford a garage repair (I have a lovely neighbour who is mechanically minded) or a new car. This looked like a good place to ask for advice on what could be wrong and how to fix it.

Mel

Hi and welcome aboard.

Hello MelB

Welcome to this site, hopefully you will get some help with your car.

Your problem sounds like clutch trouble to engage gears??

Not sure if 1st. gear is non-synchromesh like your reverse gear, but 2nd. gear should be synchromesh.

First check-out fluid level in clutch (sometimes combined with brake) master cylinder, if level low, look for any leaks.

You also may have a slave cylinder to actually operate clutch arm mechanism so check that for leaks and plenty of free movement.

If you have air entering the system this would drastically effect the amount of clutch travel to operate clutch when trying to engage gear.

If no leaks found, check gear linkages, if OK, I think you will be looking at new clutch wanting to be fitted.??

Good luck.

Welcome to Briskoda

Hello MelB

Welcome to this site, hopefully you will get some help with your car.

Your problem sounds like clutch trouble to engage gears??

Not sure if 1st. gear is non-synchromesh like your reverse gear, but 2nd. gear should be synchromesh.

First check-out fluid level in clutch (sometimes combined with brake) master cylinder, if level low, look for any leaks.

You also may have a slave cylinder to actually operate clutch arm mechanism so check that for leaks and plenty of free movement.

If you have air entering the system this would drastically effect the amount of clutch travel to operate clutch when trying to engage gear.

If no leaks found, check gear linkages, if OK, I think you will be looking at new clutch wanting to be fitted.??

Good luck.

Thanks for the help

Fluid level I could look for, because I know where that is, but the rest, eek! I might ask my neighbour to have a look for me. He's pretty good at fiddling with old cars. I'm desperately hoping it's not going to need a new gearbox because I haven't got the £s for one.