'38 3 Speed - Had been sitting for a few months. Been driving it around this week. This morning, 1st & 2nd gear noticeably more gear noise, 3rd gear quiet. Any easy answer? Seemed fine yesterday. No noticeable leaks, so I wouldn't think a low gear oil situation.
Originally owned by my Great Grandfather. Restored by my Dad. Now up to me to keep it going.
Pull the top plug on the side of the case and stick you ringer in the hole to check the lube level. If you can't feel it on your finger add lube until it runs out the hole. Other than having to crawl around on the floor it's an easy check just to rule it out.
VCCA Member 43216 Save a life, adopt a senior shelter pet. 1938 HB Business Coupe 1953 210 Sedan
. If the noise you hear has a decided click, pull your bottom drain plug and see if there is a gear tooth stuck to the magnet. If the whine is louder, and it hops out of gear, one or more of your bearings or bushings might be worn. If your oil disappears but no drip under the trans, it's leaking past the U-joint, down the torque tube to your pumpkin. The "Oakie" bushing seal needs to be replaced. When there is too much oil in the pumpkin, it will eventually leak out the rear wheels. If your rear seals are bad, it will leak on your brake shoes. Good thing you noticed and stopped to ask. . . If it only needs oil, use 90 wt. Any lighter will not cushion the gears and leak easier. Using heavier oil (like 600 wt) will cause the transmission to over heat and ruin your gears. (This is why you have to use special oil in the NVG 4500.) . Lou . .
I agree that it appears that the gear oil level is low. First and second gear run on a countershaft that is lower in the transmission case. The gears that mesh are now running dry. Third gear is simply a direct connection between the input and output shaft.
