I have a 2003 3.0 with 176K. I posted a question about my manual trans problems about a year ago and it is getting worse. Although down shiffting even to first at around 10 mph works fine for a couple years or more it is hard to get into 1st from a stop unless I slightly increase the rpm. Now, it is also getting harder to shift from 1st to 2nd without briefly pausing from 1st to 2nd. I have replaced the clutch slave cylinder four times and the clutch three times. The last time was about 15k ago and at that time I had the shop replace everything including the fly wheel. Seemed to help some but not for long. I also had a trans shop look at it and they said the trans syncros seemed ok. I think I remember them shifting from netural to 1st with the engine not running to check the syncros and that seemed odd. To the point now that am considering replacing the trans. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

what about the clutch master cylinder?

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2021 F150 5.0 Screw

Past:18 F150 2.7, 16 F150 5.0, 14 F150 5.0, 07 F150 5.4, 03 Ranger 4.0

Master Certified Ford Parts / Warranty Admin

I think you need to find a mechanic who knows what he is doing.

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The last clutch I had the master cylinder replaced. First clutch was at about 65k when the oem slave cylinder failed and while trans was out had the oem clutch replaced. Second non oem clutch lasted about 80k or so then wore out (shifting problem was there but not as bad). I went for a non self adjusting clutch at that time it was terrible. At 170k or so had the most recent clutch and flywheel, master cylinder replaced. I do not ride the clutch and do not tow or haul anything ever. I really think it is the trans. Immediately after I had the first clutch replaced I started getting a winning sound from the trans. So much so I had to put insullation under the shift console. After about 20k or so that seemed to go away. Not sure if the first shop did something or it just happened. Before that I had no shifting problem but no sure when that started as I think it slowly got worse.

I have this exact same problem in my 2000 with the 5spd.

From park, 1st, reverse - no problem.

When driving, 2nd wants to just not go in, unless you push it a little. No grind, though.

For 3rd, i have to shift towards it, wait a sec, then complete the shift. Sometimes I feel the gears just before it goes in. 4th and 5th no issues.

I just bought this truck used at 168k, and have drained and refilled the trans fluid.

So, bleed the clutch slave, you say? Or, am I maybe looking at a syncro issue?

Thanks!

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"I plan to live forever. So far, so good."
2000 Ranger XLT

replace your throw bearing. no need to replace the trans. you also need to learn how to drive stick, because a manual clutch properly driven will last 150+

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the whining is from the wrong fluid in the trans.

Clutch yes.....a master or slave cylinder....master probably, slave probably not...imo

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2004 Ranger XLT FX4 4.0L 5-Speed R1HD

Can anyone comment on my post for me? I just want to double check before I try it. Thanks!

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"I plan to live forever. So far, so good."
2000 Ranger XLT

I do know how to drive a stick. My 1999 Ranger that I bought new did not require a new clutch until 225K.

syncro's. if you have to wait, its because the syncro's arent slowing the next gear enough to match the teeth.