1996 Saturn SL1 Hard to Shift Into First

1996 SATURN
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ROY.DOWNS
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I have a 1996 SL-1 with about 150,000 K miles. I am having difficulty shifting into first gear. I can shift into 2-5 and R with no problem while both moving and at rest. I can get it into first if I am rolling forward slightly, or, at rest, if I let the clutch out slightly, it will "grind" for an instant and then pop into gear. Thanks for you're help.
Dec 10, 2006 at 11:16 PM
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MATHIASO
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,209 POSTS
if the transmission shift into all gears ,except one, the proble must be related to a part or system unique to that gear.This could also result, such as damaged shift mecanism,interference between the floor shift handle and the console or floor cutout or restricted travel of the shift linkage and or rails due to misalignment
this problem may also be cause by damage to the selected gear or the sychronizer for that gear
Dec 11, 2006 at 1:29 AM
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Suggested Repair

Because only first gear is affected, inspect the shift mechanism, linkage, and rails for misalignment or restricted travel, and check for interference between the shifter and the console or floor cutout. Also inspect the first-gear teeth and synchronizer for damage.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1996 Saturn SL1 with about 150,000 km reports difficulty selecting first gear, while second through fifth and reverse shift normally. First can be selected while rolling slightly, or at rest after a brief grind when the clutch is partially released. The expert says a problem limited to one gear points to a part unique to that gear, such as a damaged shift mechanism, shifter interference, restricted or misaligned linkage or rails, or damage to the gear or its synchronizer.

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