Help needed. Spider gearbox problem

[markh]

I have a 1984 Spider with 78,000 on the clock. I have replaced the bushes on the gear selector rod, and have tried various adjustments but despite this I cannot change down into 2nd gear. Going up through the gears and into reverse are not a problem. I can pull up to a junction select 1st and go into 2nd without a problem. There is no crunching of gears. Am I facing a gearbox problem?

[WestonE]

Hi Mark

You can try changing the oil to Red Line 75w 90 NS. The NS is NOT a typo and change it with the gearbox hot to get the crud out with the oil. If that does not work your 2nd gear synchro ring is worn out and you need to find another good gearbox. The Haynes Manual has a decent how to guide on building these gearboxes, but if you do not have tools skills or confidence better to find a known good gearbox.

Eric
PS these boxes hate the wrong oil and can fight back.

[markh]

Thank you Eric
i will give that a try
Mark