1988 Mazda 323 Clutch Won't Engage

MAZDA 323
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DON G
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  • 1 POST
I have a 1988 Mazda 323 DX with a manual transmission, The car gradually lost power in the transmission. Over the course of about 40 miles. Now the transmission will not engage the clutch at all. What can the problem be and how can I fix it. Does it use transmission fluid and if so where does it go?
Jan 30, 2007 at 2:58 AM
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BRUCE HUNT
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 3,754 POSTS
The tranny is a generally a closed system. There is a drain and a filler plug on the tranny. They don't usually need much attention but should be checked occasionally.

Now the problem with the car. Answer this question. When driving prior to this would the car seem to slowly get up to the speed you wanted? Would it if you pushed the pedal down especially in first gear not burst ahead as expected? I am thinking that the clutch was slipping for you and has finally given up. You have a cabled clutch I would surmise with decent pedal pressure, right? I am willing to be based on what I have from you that the clutch is now in need of replacement.
Jan 30, 2007 at 3:36 AM

Suggested Repair

Check the manual transmission fluid at the filler plug; it is a closed system with a drain and filler plug and only needs occasional checks. The gradual loss of drive and complete lack of engagement point to a slipping cable-operated clutch that has failed and needs replacement.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1988 Mazda 323 DX with a manual transmission reported a gradual loss of power over about 40 miles, after which the clutch would not engage at all, and asked whether the transmission uses fluid and where it goes. The expert explained that the transmission is generally a closed system with drain and filler plugs that should be checked occasionally, but the symptoms indicate a slipping clutch that has failed and needs replacement.

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