General Diagnosis - Prizm Manual Transaxle

Before attempting to repair the clutch, transaxle, or related linkages for any reason other than an obvious failure, the problem and probable cause should be identified. A large percentage of clutch and manual transaxle problems are manifested by shifting difficulties as high shift effort, gear clash and grinding, or blackout. When any of these problems occur, a careful analysis of these difficulties should be accomplished and the following checks and adjustments made before disassembling the clutch or transaxle for repairs.

Diagnosis of drivetrain noises may seem baffling because many noises believed to be coming from the transaxle may actually be originating in other sources. These other sources include the tires, road surfaces, the wheel bearings, the engine, and the exhaust system. These noises may vary by vehicle size, type, and amount of body insulation used. Therefore, a thorough and careful check should be made to determine the source of the noise before disassembling the transaxle. Noise which originates in other places cannot be corrected by the adjustment or replacement of parts in the transaxle. It should also be remembered that transaxle gears, like any mechanical device, are not absolutely quiet and will exhibit some normal operating noise. The following is a suggested approach to verify suspected transaxle noises.

1. Select a smooth, level asphalt road to reduce tire and resonant body noise.
2. Drive the vehicle far enough to thoroughly warm up all lubricants.
3. Note the speed at which noise occurs and which gear range the transaxle is in at the time.
4. Check for noises with the engine running and vehicle stopped.
5. Determine in which of the following drive conditions the noise is occurring:
A. Drive - light acceleration or heavy pull.
B. Float - maintaining constant vehicle speed at light throttle on level road.
C. Coast - partly or fully closed throttle with transaxle in gear.
D. All of above.


6. After road testing the vehicle, refer to the conditions and probable causes under BEARINGS, along with the Diagnosis Chart.