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Jim
Grant has been working in the automotive industry for over twenty
years. In addition, Jim is an ASE Master Technician with advanced
L/1 certification. He works as manager and technician in his
family's automotive business in New Hampshire. He writes weekly
automotive consumer columns and is editor of an automotive newsletter
that is circulated throughout North America. |
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Jim Grant's Tech Tips
‘89 Nissan
Maxima, Transmission Noise
Q: I have an ‘89 Nissan Maxima / SE with a 5 speed manual transmission
with 186,000 miles on it (it's been great). However, now while idling,
I'm getting a tapping noise, which sounds like it’s coming from the bell
housing of the transmission. The noise is also present and louder when
starting off in first and second gear. Any ideas, suggestions? Mechanics
seem to think it a faulty bearing. Could it be the throw-out bearing??
...Charles
A: A
throw-out bearing, when failing, usually is loudest when you step on the
clutch pedal. That is when the throw-out bearing is under the most load
The noise you’re describing, along with the shifting problems indicates
that there are internal transmission bearings that are failing. As a bearing
fails, small pieces of metal (bearing material) travel throughout the
rest of the transmission, causing and accelerating damage and wear to
other costly transmission components. Don’t wait too long! Delaying the
needed repairs WILL drive the repair cost higher.
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