1st let me say I have drove alot of manual trans cars. I have raced alot of manual trans cars. So this is not a lack of experience question.


Under full throttle shifter 5500+ 3rd gear gives me problems some times like many of you guys from what i have read. I have installed steeda bushings but they only helped minorly if at all. Is there any tips/ methods or parts you guys have used to fix this? I want 100% shifts. It cant be good to grind the gears at 6000 RPM. It makes me feel bad to hurt my poor girl like that.

 

There is a fix for this, as I recall the problem is due to the motor/ tranny torqueing over during shifting and interfering with the linkage. I think the fix was to install a torque strap.

 

Where do I get that and how much is it going to set me back?

 

anyone?

 

You'd get one at the Ford dealer...And it shouldn't cost you anything.

 

?? Why would they give me a torque strap? Im confused......

 

The stock "Hydra-mounts" allow for a lot of engine movement. I would try a set of the aftermarket polyurethane mounts that are available. These are a must of you're running long tube headers as the stock mounts will allow long tube headers to hit the steering shaft. Having the engine move too much when it's producing a lot of torque, letting off then torquing hard again such as what occurs when shifting under high load will effect how well the shifter works. More firm engine mounts also will allow you to get a little more power to the wheels as well.
The torque strap is not a bad idea either but you may find it may not be able to compensate for those soggy stock mounts. I would try the swapping the engine mounts first, then go with the torque strap if you think you still need it.

 

if you are OK with spending a bit of money to make your problem go away...

Buy a pro 5.0 Shifter. You will NEVER miss 3rd gear (and always make it) and it is a very good mod. Many forums have install/review types of threads.. Do a bit of Google searching and by all means I recommend it!

 

Wait so they'll just give you one for free no questions asked. For some reason that seems a little hard to believe ??

 

I believe there is a tech bulletin about it. If they know about the problem, and deem that it is a design flaw, then they'll fix it for free. What’s with you people? Is this your first new car?