[Jetflo]

The Problem

I have a 102K mile T-5 transmission in my 2001 Mustang V6. It complains if you are sloppy up shifting into second gear and has a "crunchy" 5th gear up shift. The clutch is still really strong; does not slip and does not seem to chatter. All other gears work fine. The car has no other mechanical issues.

Background

The car had these problems when I bought it used a few years back @ 67K miles at a dealership. It is probably why the original owner traded it in and the price I paid was fair. I always thought it would get worse but after 35K miles the annoying thing is that it never does.

Reality check

The car is not broken. The transmission works fine with a bit of technique. Fixing it isn't necessary. It would just make my car more fun. Spending much isn't justified. We live in a "fully submerged micro-condo" so even though I've done this sort of work before it isn't an option this time. Shop labor might be the biggest cost to consider maintaining in this decision.

That is where I would appreciate your help.

OK here are the options:

1. Junk yard T-5 from ebay + clutch parts + local labor = $1000
2. Rebuild my T-5 + clutch parts + local labor = $1200
3. Something else; what do you think is the cheapest way to fix?
4. Don't fix it until something is actually broken

What would you recommend and why?

thanks!

[ag11hockey]

sounds like the synchros shit the bed. have you changed your tranny fluid and if so what kind?, and if i were you id just get it rebuilt. if you can, take the tranny out yourself (its 4 bolts and the driveshaft and some exhaust dis assembly). this will help lower the labor cost. buy the ford racing rebuild kit from jegs for 400 bucks. i did the same thing because i was having problems with reverse.

[g19n87r]

I have a t5 for sale with 30,000 on it no problems for cheap

[Six Banger]

If it isnt broken dont fix it

My 5th gear does the same thing, but only at certain speeds and if I try to shift quickly. If the problems arent getting worse and you know how to drive it as is then just leave it alone. If you bring it to a shop transmission work can get pricey.

[Codeman]

I agree, mine the syncrhos are getting sloppy. It is bad in second from slamming it in. BUt it works. No need to fix it until it breaks.

[goren813]

You say clutch is fine but stock? Then you're including clutch parts in the prices... See what the trans above from the wrecked Stang is going for or buy the rebuild kit, I wouldn't go get one out of junker thinking its going to work like new, you already have one that you can have rebuilt.

[Jetflo]

Originally Posted by g19n87r I have a t5 for sale with 30,000 on it no problems for cheap

G19n78r,

I'm interested. I will send ya a PM.

The prices I posted above were estimates for the whole job including a new clutch. There are still a few shops around here that work for a fair price.

I am grateful for all the quick responses.