I decided to take the cover off of my np435 to see if I can figure out why it doesn't shift into 2nd. I don't know what I'm looking for. The shift forks don't look damaged or bent to me but I don't know what I'm doing. I noticed a little allen screw on the fork. Are they adjustable? When shifting into first the shift lever goes pretty far up towards the dash. If I try to put the truck in gear while parked and hold the lever down I can feel the gears grind a bit when I let out the clutch. It won't drop into second though. I have been able to drive it with no problem first, third, fourth. I mean now that I'm getting used to shifting it and I actually find third gear.
Also, how do you know if the transmission has enough oil? I can see the oil in the bottom of the transmission. I really wish my camera was working. I'd have some pictures.
Take a look at the ends of the forks.There should be plastic wear pads called fork shoes.Sometimes these will wear out and cause problems.The allen bolt you see is a set screw to lock the fork to the shift rail.It's not adjustable.
I'm with JD.More than likely the problem is a worn/broken synchronizer.
I finally got the cover back on correctly. At least I think it's on right. The fork which I think operates first and second gears has little plastic pieces on the ends. I tried putting it into second while driving it but I only can get the gear to grind a little but not engage.
Sounds like the forks are okay.If your trans isn't making strange noises and the rest of the gears work correctly then the 2nd gear synchronizer has to be the problem.
New process synchros are a little different from other stuff. They don't wear like most brass does as they're spring loaded.
When you buy new NP synchro sets they come with the steel rings, shims, the center aluminum hub and the actual splined hub that the gears engage. If you're having problems with second engaging and the plastic pieces on the 1-2 fork are in good shape then you need to look at the splined hub, specifically the second gear side of it. My guess is the teeth will be little nubs. The fix is to just buy the 1-2 synchro set and install it. There can be other things going on in there though. Broken or missing retaining clips or the rear mainshaft bearing so far worn that the whole mainshaft is moving forward-aft in the case preventing 2nd from going in when you move the fork.
I noticed a little allen screw on the fork. Are they adjustable? When shifting into first the shift lever goes pretty far up towards the dash. If I try to put the truck in gear while parked and hold the lever down I can feel the gears grind a bit when I let out the clutch. It won't drop into second though. I have been able to drive it with no problem first, third, fourth. I mean now that I'm getting used to shifting it and I actually find third gear.
