Shifter seems extra notchy

Is it just the cold weather or do I need to change the trans fluid?


I'll define the notchiness for y'all's benefit:

1) First thing in the morning, I can barely downshift down into 2nd w/o double-clutching and being very, very patient.

2) I've noticed notchy shifting at times going up into 3rd and 4th - when it's cold outside but the car is warm. I don't ever seem to scratch gears or anything, but I've noticed notchier shifts in the cold just this winter.

It's not a tremendous nuisance, but if I need to change the fluid, can I get some recommendations? :D

mine is feeling alot notchier as well. but mine feels that way all the time, i can understand when its cold the fluid is thicker and not flowing good so it makes the shifter harder to move inbetween gears but i am more concerned that it feels that way all the time.

The nylon bushing at the end of your shifter could be worn or broken. Easily replaceable part from the dealer.

Same here with the BRG until it warms up. I plan on changing out the trans and turret fluid to see if that fixes it.

Cool... I need to get in there anyhow and inspect/replace the boots. Is the turret fluid different than the trans fluid, btw?

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Originally Posted by trickyrix

Is the turret fluid different than the trans fluid, btw?

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Nope. Get a turkey baster (or some other sucking device) and get as much of the old fluid out, then refill. Check the nylon bushing on the bottom on the shifter too.

PS
I'll bet the fluid is low. Don't know where it goes, but it does.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by trickyrix

Cool... I need to get in there anyhow and inspect/replace the boots. Is the turret fluid different than the trans fluid, btw?

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Nope. Do you know when the last time they were changed?

Damn those boots are some expensive rubber.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by cam76034

Nope. Do you know when the last time they were changed?

Damn those boots are some expensive rubber.

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No clue when the boots or fluid were last changed, but I haven't done it. I get a lot of heat from under the console in warm weather, so I figure the boots are done.

How much are those boots??

Quote:

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Originally Posted by trickyrix

No clue when the boots or fluid were last changed, but I haven't done it. I get a lot of heat from under the console in warm weather, so I figure the boots are done.

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They are not a long life part. I've had to replace the boots on the '02 and the '99.

I've had good luck with Mobil One Synthetic in the transmission and shifter on my five speeds.

http://www.mazdastuff.com/directory.cfm?CategoryID=27

Approx. $40 for both

Great info... thanks guys!

I just serviced the trans in my 99 and replaced both boots. I used Royal Purple in both the box and the turret...........the difference in shift quality is amazing......do it, do it now

I use RP too. Good stuff.

Also check the nylon bushing in the slot on the big ball.

They disappear too. and newer shifters don't have it.