T-5 noises...please help!

[Quick88Tbird]

Well, I just picked up an '88 Cougar XR7 that's been converted to a HO/T-5...it's a fun car, BUT 5th gear makes a lot of noise...like a load sensitive rumble...more load, more rumbling...no load, no noise. Every other gear is fine, easily engaged and quiet...the kid said he used GM synchromesh in the tranny...I"m new to T-5's, I've always been an AOD kinda guy...I forgot how much fun stick cars can be.

Please help me keep my daily driver fun and reliable.

Thanks,
Don

[frdfandc]

Synchromesh is usually used in the TKO's and T-56's. All T-5's use Dextron/Mercon III.

Sounds like you have a worn gear, or a bearing starting to go.

[1/4 horse]

5th gear is actually outside of the main case in the t5, it's contained in the tailshaft. It could be alot of things causing the issue. So it's good news and bad news. The good news is that 5th is probably the easiest and cheapest gear to replace in a t5. The bad news is you have to pull the tranny and break it down to find out what is really going on inside the case.

[Quick88Tbird]

Synchromesh is usually used in the TKO's and T-56's. All T-5's use Dextron/Mercon III.

Sounds like you have a worn gear, or a bearing starting to go.


Okay, thanks for that information...it simply further proves that this kid is a moron.

I am aware that 5th gear is basically in the tailshaft....I was wondering if I could replace the necessary parts with it still installed in the car...just drop the crossmember...I plan on picking up a T-5 rebuild book/video soon and maybe I'll come across a cheap T-5 in need of repair....just need to sell my Art Carr AOD first...lol.

Thanks guys,
Don

[frdfandc]

Don, I have a Ford T-5 manual in my tool box at work. I'll check it out and see if its do-able with the trans in the car.

[Quick88Tbird]

Thanks man, I appreciate it...I've had nothing but problems with this car since I bought it...I've learned two things...never buy a car from a friend(on his word) and don't always trust dealership mechanics...kid works for a ford dealership...2nd day with the car, a wheel fell off during that crazy nor'easter we had up here, rear is fragged, steering column wasn't bolted down, speedo sensor harness(t-bird/cougar's are electronic) is MIA...idles at 1100rpm if you're lucky.....I'm chasing down one thing at a time here...it's quite frustrating....that's why I really appreciate any and all help I can get, lol.

Thanks again,
Don