206 gearchange problems.

[alexfisher]

Hi, my Peugeot is a 206 Look, 1360cc, MA5 gearbox, 2003, 47000 miles.

In the last few hundred miles the gearchange has become a problem.

1st gear has to be selected while rolling to a stop, otherwise it clashes.
2nd gear is 'harshly notchy' when selected at normal road speeds, smooth if the engine is revved before selecting, smooth if selected above 15mph.
3rd gear is 'harshly notchy' when selected at normal road speeds, smooth if the engine is revved before selecting, smooth if selected above 30mph.
4th, 5th & reverse OK.
Jumps out of 1st and 3rd occasionally but this may be due to over cautious selection.

I have checked the opperation of the self adjusting clutch cable which seems to be OK (according to the Haynes manual) and the gear select rods are firm with no excessive play.

Any thoughts greatfully recieved, thanks - Alex.

[CitroJim]

If you are 100% sure the clutch is ok then check/change the oil and only use 75w/80 oil and absolutely nothing else.

Preferably Total BV.

Anything heavier than 75w/80 will make the gearchange horrid.

As the problem had a sudden onset I'd still be suspecting the clutch. The MA is a reliable little 'box normally.

[Hell Razor5543]

You should still be able to get hold of Total BV 75w80 oil from GSF, and at a better price than from a PSA dealership.

[alexfisher]

Thanks for the advice CitroJim & Hell Razor5543 - oil change has solved the problem

[CitroJim]

Thanks for the advice CitroJim & Hell Razor5543 - oil change has solved the problem

Excellent Delights and thanks for coming back and letting us know!

[Hell Razor5543]

Great news.

[alexfisher]

Hi All - I'm back again and have to admit to some wishfull thinking. Having replaced the gearbox oil there was a great improvement (though not perfect) and I was happy to continue using the vehicle. It is still improved but has regressed so:
1st gear must be engaged while rolling to a stop.
2nd gear must be engaged with (sometimes agonising) care.
3rd gear msut be engaged with (sometimes great) care.
4th/5th/reverse OK.

2 litres of very dark gearbox oil came out, replaced (vehicle level) with almost 2 litres of Halfords Gear Oil EP 75/80 GL-4.

I decided to try the Halfords product first to check for any improvement and flush before using Total BV 75/80.

Would Total BV make much difference?

How would a failing clutch cause this kind of problem? Presumably the clutch is not completely dissengaging? How can I confirm this type of clutch fault?

If I replace the clutch how can I check the gearbox while it is out?

Can anyone recommend a shop in the Bristol area to have the gearbox serviced if required?

Thanks - Alex.

P.S. CitroJim thanks for your timing belt article http://www.eastment.net/206cb/index.htm - did mine last week.