HELP! Manual Transmission is out and want to fix myself, can it be done?

Question

I don't know much about transmissions, but theres gotta be stuff online, like picture diagrams, and manuals to fix it.

I have a 93 Cavalier Z24 and my transmission broke yesterday. It's in reverse but the shifter itself just moves freely without being able to be put into ANY gear. I really need to fix my car and wan't to take it apart myself, can anyone help me out please!?!? I'm pretty smart and can learn fast.

Answer 1

You need to make sure the shifter cable isnt your problem in the first place. Have someone shift through the gears and watch the shifter on the transmission to rule out any problem there. If that works I would replace the trans with a used one. Youll be in way way over your head trying to figure outs whats wrong and repairing a transmission. Even replaceing the trans is gonna be very difficult, and I dont think its even possible without a car lift.  

Answer 2

Sounds to me like the linkage simply just fell off.  Get it up on ramps or stands, chock and get underneath and simply look at the linkage.  If something is actually broken, it's really no big deal to remove the part and go to NAPA or similar to get another.  Replace, adjust if needed and be on your way.

Answer 3

Could just be a linkage problem but best to have it looked at and repaired by a qualified mechanic.  Transmission is something that you want to have no worries about.

Answer 4

is the lever  ok?  maybe just needs new lever..look at bottom ball on bottom...of lever  or bush??  

Answer 5

sounds like a shifter cable broke not so hard autozone

Answer 6

If it's not the lever or the cable, I suggest you not open the gearbox. There are a lot of tolerances that will be beyond your ability to measure.