Gearbox fubar'd?

[VeeDubMan]

Was just on the way to the van's first MOT in 9 years and was struggling to get from 3rd to 2nd gear. When I did get it in 2nd and I came off the gas, it would jump out. 1st - 2nd was OK...but then couldn't get 1st and 2nd at all. 3rd and 4th always seemed fine. It's now stuck in 2nd gear and won't budge though. Wife had to tow me a couple of miles home (back country roads thankfully).

Any ideas? Gear stick is a Berg but don't think that's the issue as I've removed that, wiggled it around and replaced. All looks fine with the ball end.

 

[gavinmlane]

To start with I'd take out the gear stick, and try pulling or pushing the rod underneath to see if it moves any gears.

 

[Trikky2]

How's the gearbox oil and level. Underlubricated they can get too hot and get stuck in a gear. If its this then once cool it may well free off.

 

[VeeDubMan]

Thanks for the replies. Did the rod wiggling thing when I was waiting to be towed (and subsequently when I got back home). No joy there and when I put the box in, I filled it with oil while it was nice and level on a Workmate so don't think that's the issue. Box was an 1800 rebuilt unit by Justin Pane.

Mechanically, I've just had enough of it now, so it's off to Voodoo VW in a week or so to be looked at. Still a very slim chance it will make it in time for holiday (missed my slot at Concept Poptops though for the new roof)

 

[Trikky2]

Sorry to hear it didn't free up after cooling. The 1800 box has nice overall gearing and is a good choice IMO. Let us know how you get on and what the diagnosis is. If its just a sticking selector it should be an easy fix.

 

[VeeDubMan]

Yep that's the main reason for going for that 'box. Stuck with the 195/70 tyre's too for better top end cruising

 

[VeeDubMan]

Still no MOT so had to take the car and tent option for the family holiday to Cornwall and Brittany instead. However, I managed to get the van in to VoodooVW in Newbury before we left so Richard and the team could take a look.

The fault on the gearbox turned out to be a broken selector retainer (anyone know what this bit is?). Looks like the original bracket had broken and had been welded in the past and somebody had put a washer over it to try and spread the load. Richard has bolted on a spare from a donor box, and can select all 5 gears. It's a bit stiff though apparently, but we'll have to see how it goes.

Bit worried it could happen again though. Unknown history with this gearbox as it was a reconditioned 1800. Anyone know of a reason for these braking?