[Fullerbird]

Ive got a '89 5.0 lx. when i shift in to 4th i get a grind nearly every time, sometimes i can ease it in and it wont. I figure its the sycronizer. so here is my question:
I have limited knowlege (can do some mechanic work, never done anything to big) and dont know if i can do this myself or if i need to have someone else do it for me (though ide like to try so i can learn more). at the same time, do i have to do this soon, or will just not using 4th be ok untill i get money to fix it.

also my temp gauge is bad, idk where or what to look for on that.

any and all advice is more than welcome, and i really appreciate the help.!!

 

[EagleAutosports]

Easy one first: chances are your temp problem is the sending unit on the lower intake. Change it and chances are it'll solve your problem.

About the grinding. Too many immediately think a grinding means it's the synchro. It's very possible, but it could also be a shift fork problem, a clutch problem, a clutch cable problem, or a gear that needs to be replaced. Just don't get tunnel vision about it being a synchro and overlook the other possible causes.

You should be able to skip 4th until you can have it addressed.

You could do the work yourself if you:
are handy with tools
have the right tools
a transmission rebuild book

Tearing into a transmission is something a first timer can do if they have a book to let them know specifics about the transmission. There's many parts that MUST go back in the right place or destruction will result. You have to know how to do the job you're intending to do and the tools to do it. A good thing to have is another set of hands helping who's also done the job that can help you.

 

[Fullerbird]

Thanks for the tip. Ive got some old Chiltons and other automotive books that i can use when it comes down to it. Do you know how i can find out if its those other things, such as the clutch?

Here are some things ive noticed about it, that may or may not indicate the problem : Shifting into any gear seams stiff, 4th grinds, very stiff clutch (but i have herd that most mustangs are stiff).

Really appreciate the tips, there giving me great confidience.

 

[spdjnky_42]

T5 can be a tough rebuild for a beginner.

 

[Fullerbird]

well does anyone know what im looking at price wise to do it my self vs. paying to have it done?