When I release the clutch it automatically jumps forward like it is in gear and shuts off

2000 FORD ESCORT
168,750 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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ZAK KUCHARSKI
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So my car listed above ZX2 will not shift into first second or reverse. when I start it if I let go of the clutch it automatically jumps forward like it's in gear and shuts off immediately. I can get it moving by feathering the clutch and starting off in 3rd 3rd 4th and 5th gears all work just not first second and reverse do you think it's the clutch linkage cable or actual breakage in the clutch.
Jun 28, 2019 at 7:55 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Good morning,

No, this sounds like an internal issue in the transmission itself. The fact you have 3, 4,and 5th tells me the clutch is working.

Can you even put it in 1st gear when you start the engine and push the clutch in?

I attached some pictures for you. The one with the rails circled is the possible issue.

Roy

Roy
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Jun 28, 2019 at 8:17 AM
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ZAK KUCHARSKI
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No it wont go into first at all, not even when i start it and press the clutch in.
Jun 28, 2019 at 10:55 PM
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ZAK KUCHARSKI
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Is it an easy fix?
Jun 28, 2019 at 10:56 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
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No, it is not.

The transmission will have to be removed and inspected for the failure. The shift rail looks like the issue but needs to be confirmed.

Roy
Jun 29, 2019 at 4:52 AM
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ZAK KUCHARSKI
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is this an expensive fix?
Jul 3, 2019 at 2:12 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
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Anytime a transmission has to be removed it will be expensive as you do not even know what the failure is at this point.

Roy
Jul 3, 2019 at 2:14 AM
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ZAK KUCHARSKI
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price estimate?
Jul 3, 2019 at 2:15 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
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Anywhere from $800.00 to about $1,500.00. That depends on your area and the parts required for repair.

Roy
Jul 3, 2019 at 2:37 AM
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ZAK KUCHARSKI
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thank you for the assistance.
Jul 7, 2019 at 8:25 PM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 52,796 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
You are welcome.

Always glad to help.

Roy
Jul 8, 2019 at 2:03 AM
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