Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

So I have this 5 spd transmission that has been sitting for a bit and I am wondering if I could get some advice on doing a rebuild before I throw it in the car. I have read the info on this site but nothing besides bearings is discussed.

1. Is this do-able myself?

2. What parts should I replace and which of these parts can be found at a local parts store besides the bearings? Syncros? Gaskets?

3. What is the best way to prevent the 5 gear problem I so often read about?

4. Any other recommendations?

Thanks for sharing the knowledge!

while we are on the subject, and i have already asked but got no response on another thread.... why would reverse in my 5spd be grinding and making noises so bad??

Sounds like the main shaft nuts have backed off and it is now starting to digest itself...

A while back I had a problem with my transmission. When it would get hot from a long trip I would have a difficult time at a stop selecting 1st. And reverse, grind like hell. Turned out that the clutch hose was squishy or soft from age and the pin in the pedal was very worn. So the clutch was not fully disengaging. This took it's toll on the clutch and syncros. I call this negative learning.
As far as rebuilding my question would be do you have a warner (brass syncro) or a servo (steel syncro) transmission. They both will fit into the same case so the only way I know to differentiate them is to crack it open. The warner shifts nice and easy (Sunday driver) but won't last very long if you abuse it. The servo tranny shifts hard but will take more abuse and it's rebuild tolerances are not as critical.

The standard ball bearings are easily found.

Mike--
Are you planning to replace the synchos in your new 5-speed? If so, where are you getting new ones from? Is there anything else that needs replacing besides the bearings, gaskets, and synchros?

Ok, seeing as how I just had one built, syncro rings will run you $50-70 (steel, the brass ones are far cheaper) each depending how friendly your local Nissan dealer is. A new set of bearings will set you back about another $200. Shift forks will be a major issue, they are not cheap. Make sure all the detent balls/springs are replaced as well, they are really cheap. As for assembly, they are tricky (so I'm told). Also while you are in there, check your 5th gear and have it silicon brazed if it hasn't come apart. If you happen to have one of the splined 5ths, lucky you. If you are going to have someone else build the box, find a small Porsche repair place, the roadster 5spds are much like the internals of a early 911 box. Or find a place that specializes in non mass produced transmissions.

Good luck,
Will

Good information, Will.
I haven't priced them anywhere, but the general parts numbers for the bearings can be found here: http://www.311s.org/tech/train/5speedrebuild.html. You should be able to save a few bucks by buying bearings from a seller of high-quality bearings versus buying them from Nissan.
FYI, I get my Nissan parts from http://www.everythingnissan.com, who sell parts at 25% under list and are willing to special order old roadster parts provided they are still available.

Andy,

When you are ready to rebuild the tranny, let me know. My father has rebuilt several of them and can do it with his eyes closed. Thats what 20 years of working for Nissan will do. He will being coming to town in FEB/MAR, so I'm having him rebuild mine at that time.

That would be awesome. I will definitely time it such that I am ready to do the rebuild while he is in town. I'll have all the parts I need on hand. Thanks a lot for that offer!

Ummm, Chuck, wouldn't it be a good idea to ask Dad first before he shows up, say "Hi", shove a beer in his hand, take him out to your garage, point at the two waiting-for-a-rebuild trannies, and say "Dinner's at six."

Ahhhhh the follies of youth. Spaeking as a dad we usally grumble a minute and give though, sigh.....

Hey, come on. The guy can do this with his eyes closed. He could do one with each hand and it would take him half as long!

The reason he wants to come out is to rebuild the motor in my 67.5 resto project. He comes out for a week or so to work on my cars. Last summer i woke-up Saturaday morning about 8 am to find my dad in the garage tunes up the SU's on my 69 2000.

Been going through the tech tips and web site. This is my 1st ?? does anybody have the needle roller bearings part #s or size? I have servo 5 spd