A&Q about 350Z
Q:
Hi everyone,
When my Z is cold, it is extraordinarily difficult to pull the shifter. In addition, there is a whistling noise that raises in pitch in each gear. This lasts until the car has warmed up for about 10 minuts.
I don't know if there's any corellation, but I had my manual transmission fluid changed right before this began.
Any ideas or advice?
Thanks!
%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%
guns and guitars, bikinis and fast cars - slide behind the wheel and GO!!
A:
I live in a cold climate and have also noticed that if I'm not sure to fully depress the clutch pedal I will grind when I shift into 3rd gear. Initially I thought there was a problem in 3rd but since I bought the car in early December we've had some days in the low 60's and the grinding never happens even if I shift swiftly.
2003 Redline Touring
A:
"I don't know if there's any corellation, but I had my manual transmission fluid changed right before this began.
Yes, very very possible that the fluid is not the proper viscosity for the ambient temperature outside. What type of fluid did you put in it?
The problems you're describing would indicate that the fluid is too thick while cold, and therefore its having difficulty getting inbetween the tight spaces spaces to lubricate them properly until the fluid gets hot and thinner.
----------
1985 300ZX n/a
A:
Just to be a nag...
You should always depress the pedal fully while shifting. In addition, it shouldnt be something you have to "be sure" about. It should be your instinct. I was ragged on by a friend when I first got my car for not pushing it all the way. I make sure the pedal touches the floor as I am shifting now.
I don't know about the whistling...haven't heard it, but I would have to say phxz31 knows his stuff...listen to him
Previously owned: 2005 Z Enthusiast, Super Black, 6 spd.
Currently lease: 2006 Pathfinder S, Silver, Auto
"She is (and always will be) my little deuce coupe, you don't know what I got!"
A:
I bought a 2006 model several months ago. I have had the same problem shifting gears since the weather got a little cooler. I live in Georgia and we have had more mild days than cold days. The car is always garaged but there are some mornings when I can not get the damn thing in gear no matter how far I depress the clutch pedal. I am getting so irritated with the feel of the shifter, that I wish I would have gotten an automatic.
A:
Hey guys, thanks for the advice,
phx, that was my initial reaction. I think that the fluid might be too thick. I don't know what was put in it because I had it done at the Kwik Kar Lube 'n Tune, and the guy just asked me if I wanted my transmission fluid changed.
I need to find out. I hope it's not going to hurt the car to drive it in the meantime!
%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%
guns and guitars, bikinis and fast cars - slide behind the wheel and GO!!
A:
Probably won't hurt as long as you don't get grinding. Before you leave your home, try turning the car on 5 minutes before you intend to leave and let it sit and run in neutral. This will at least get the fluid moving around and somewhat warm before you take off.
Those quick lube places will usually just look up the fluid rating (GL-4, GL-5, etc) but they usually throw in regular 90weight gear oil, which is pretty standard. The 350Z probably would be better with 80W-90 or 75W-90 in colder weather.
----------
1985 300ZX n/a
A:
I was having the same trouble with the shiter in my 29 mile bran new '06. I just made sure the pedal was always all the way down, and took it verrrry easy on the shifting and rpms, always giving a little more gas than necessary.
Im now at 2,000 miles on a 3 week old '06, and either the shifter has smoothed out and feels incredible now, or I have psychologically become accustomed to it.. either way.. the more you use it, the more it will break in and the better it will feel.
IMHO, thats the case with any new car... never feels the same as the last one. Thats a big reason I always lay so low on my new cars.. user error can be the worst enemy if your horsing around on a toy you dont understand.
'06 Silverstone 6 speed touring. WOW. Just WOW!
A:
No you definitely have to break in a clutch. They are a bit "grabby" when brand new. After awhile of driving they smooth out considerably.
----------
1985 300ZX n/a
A:
i trust a lube -n- tune place about as far as i can throw my car... nuff said...
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Chrome Silver '03 Touring -MT-
C.F. Nismo Wing
Shorty Antenna (Stolen!!! Thanks alot!)
Kicker Solo Baric L7 1200w
I don't think, I know...
Well, I don't think you know either