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MG TD TF 1500 - Transmission Will Not Go Into Gear

Sorry to bug you guys with another problem. I am thinking of naming my TD "Hydra", since every time I fix a problem, two more crop up. Got the car running (think you for all the help) and it just needs be be tuned up (carbs and time). Since it is up on jack stands I tried to put it in gear. No joy. The shifter moves in the correct pattern, but will not go into gear. It did go into reverse though. Before I crawl underneath I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions on what to look for. I have been in the same house for 30 years, and all my car buddies have moved away, so no one to ask questions of but here.


CH Hull

When you say, "The shifter moves in the correct pattern, but will not go into gear", is this with the engine running and the clutch depressed? Can you feel the mechanical action of things sliding around in the gearbox? Bud
Bud Krueger

With the engine running, it does not slip into gear. I can feel the H pattern, but it does not go far enough to go into a gear. It feels like something is stopping it from going far enough.
CH Hull

Does it grind as you try to engage?

Your clutch may be frozen to the flywheel, a common issue if it has set for a long period of time.

Do your brakes work? If you have a helper, have them put the clutch in and step on the brakes, then use the hand crank to see if the engine is locked to the flywheel. A lunge with the hand crank can break it free.

Alternately, since it is still on the stands, put it in gear, step on the brakes, engage the starter momentarily, BUT LEAVE THE IGNITION OFF, and see it it rolls over. Beware, that if it starts, it can shake off the stands and take off!

JIM NORTHRUP SR

Jim may well have it. That happened to me. The disk was frozen to the flywheel by a thinn film of rust. Can you go through a solid H-pattern with engine off?

Bud Krueger

Today I was working on Hydra (my name for my TD) and still can not get the gear shifter to go into first, second, third, or fourth. I can put in reverse, release the clutch, and the rear wheels turn (still up on jack stands). It feels like something is keeping the shift lever from going far enough to engage. Any suggestions.

The reason I call my wonder Hydra, is because, just like the multi headed monster, when ever I fix something, two more problems arise. Not Hydra's fault, fault of the previous owner for letting her sit tooo long. Besides, it gives me plenty to do away from the wife.
CH Hull

CH, i think it is time to pull the cover and take a peek inside or you can have the gearbox out in a couple of hours. regards, tom
tom peterson

This thread was discussed between 26/10/2013 and 31/10/2013

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