M6 reverse problems

**RB Racing** · 06-06-2006, 01:59 PM

Looking at a used 2001 Z28 with a 6spd that has a 100k on it and the owner says he has to hold it in reverse while letting out the clutch but once it's moving it's o.k? Any idea's what the problem might be, car looks in nice shape bone stock.

**predator** · 06-06-2006, 06:39 PM

prolly synchros...

**ss~zoso~ss** · 06-06-2006, 07:15 PM

shift fork?

**ss~zoso~ss** · 06-06-2006, 07:16 PM

bad reverse lockout solenoid, mine wouldnt go into reverse for a while because i had a short in the reverse lockout solenoid, it was such a tiny short i'm sure i saved thousands over taking it to the dealer

phew!

**Wesman** · 06-06-2006, 08:38 PM

I doubt its the syncho, since you only really use reverse from a slow roll or dead stop. Hell, some manual transmissions don't even have a synchronized reverse.

Look into the reverse lockout solenoid like zoso suggested, chances are its something more along those lines.

**30thbird** · 06-07-2006, 04:31 AM

The solenoids hardley EVER fail. If it were a solenoid problem( this is not ) it would more likely be in the wiring/ plug. A common cause is incorrect skip shift eliminator resistor installation. In theory the reverse synchro should never wear out, if one properly engages reverse( speed-appropriate). There is the problem. It is very common for over-anxious drivers to mis-shift and crash through the reverse inhibitor( it is NOT a lockout)and clash reverse( thank god it does not engage) This happens on a missed 2-3 or ( much less often) 4-5 shift. Over time with accumulation of this abuse, the reverse clutch teeth will no longer hold the sleeve engaged and the result is = reverse gear jump out. The repeated jump out also bends the shift fork.
You will need a synchronizer , reverse driven gear, blocker ring and shift fork( with pads).If you are sneaky you can flip/re-install the reverse sleeve on the synchronizer and eliminate the need for replacing the synchronizer assembly.This is possible because the reverse synchro sleeve is only used in one direction but both sides have machined teeth. Get a manual before you tear into the box.

**Fibbado** · 06-07-2006, 11:39 AM

My bet is on...

Reverse Inhibit Circuit Malfunction...

i have a few quirky electrical problems in my car and that is one of them, all that happens is that maybe every once in awhile when i try to go in reverse it souns like a gear grinding but not quite, i just pull it out of reverse and put it back in.... yours might be a complete malfunction though

My other problems are Rear Wheel Speed Sensor and fuel guage. Fun Stuff