Gear Shift BUZZ

[78sid]

78 5-speed seems to be running strong after about three years of rebuilding. However, now that I've got it back on the road, the gear shift is buzzing in all gears. I paid an experienced Z mechanic to rebuild the transmission about a year ago and it's going back to him next week to review my DIY work. I'm fishing for probable issues before I start questioning his work. I'm also getting some whining/roaring from the drive train. I initially assumed this to be the rear end bearings since that was about the only thing I haven't replaced or rebuilt, but I'm now wondering if it is all related to the transmission rebuild.

Thanks for any input.

Sid

[Zed Head]

Is Part #31 installed? Without it the lever will bounce around and buzz and you'll have loose-feeling shifting. Available through the dealer or courtesyparts.com.

Datsun 280Z Transmission Control Lever & Fork (5 Speed-FS5W71B) (From Aug.-'76)

[psdenno]

Part #32 is also worth changing while you're in the area. Parts should be available over the counter at your local Datsun (Nissan) dealer.

Dennis

[78sid]

Shifter is tight and feels right. 32 is there. 31 shown in the diagram as two pieces has been replaced on my setup as one piece that passes through. 30 with retainer is a tight fit. I don't know if it was replaced by PO or if the design changed in subsequent models. I can see where there might be more vibration transfer with this setup, but not as significant as I am feeling.

[78sid]

I changed the gear oil in the differential today. Pretty nasty stuff, but no metal on the magnet at all. After the service, I took it for a spirited spin down some country roads. The whining was pretty much gone, but the chatter in the gears was still there though it did seem to be less intense. Hopefully, I'll get it resolved during its checkup this week.

[FastWoman]

I don't know if you're referring to a shifter bushing buzz (as others are suggesting). I replaced my deteriorated nylon (OEM-style) shifter bushings with brass bushings. It gives the shifter a very nice, tight feel. AND it transfers rattles, buzzes, and whines brilliantly from the transmission, through the shifter, and into the cabin. It's driving me nuts.

[Zed Head]

They're purty cheap if you want to go back - http://www.courtesyparts.com/bushing-p-345116.html

[FastWoman]

I know... I just have to reach a point that the annoyance of the buzz surpasses the effort of pulling the center console.

[Captain Obvious]

78sid, Are you using the original black plastic knob, or have you switched it to something else? I found the plastic knobs to be quieter than others because the softer rubbery plastic absorbs vibration. I switched to a wood knob and as goofy as it seems, it makes much more noise than my original faux leather plastic knob.

Shifter bushings? I made some out of Delrin. Has some compliance like stock, but not as harsh as brass. They work great:

[78sid]

I have switched to a faux wood shifter knob, and I have considered that as the source. I'll pull that tonight and give it a spin. Since my setup also has one side that does not have a bushing, I'm thinking that fast woman may be on to something, but I also agree with her that I'm not looking forward to pulling the consol.

I'll report back on the naked shifter.