Floating gears in non synchronized transmission? (5 speed)

Floating means not using the clutch except to start moving. All other shifts do not use the clutch. Smaller transmissions usually have RPMs drop so quickly it is hard to float. Floating doesn't hurt the transmission, it's the not quite being able to get in gear when trying to float that causes damage.

 

If the transmission is synchronised you can always get into gear using the clutch. If the transmission is not synchronized you can only get into a gear if the RPMs, roadspeed are within the correct operating range. Floating just takes the clutch mechanism out of the equation, not change if the gears are harmed.

 

Depends. You first have to figure out if the transmission is synchro-mesh or constant mesh. Shifting a synchro transmission without the clutch will eventually tear the synchronizers up. You’re moving a gear into another gear with a synchro box. A constant mesh you’re only moving a collar that locks an already engaged gear to the main shaft.

 

Put over 1 million miles on a syncro’d spicer 6 speed in a ‘99 FL 60. Used the clutch in first and reverse only. Never had issues with trans. It’s still solid. Only replaced the clutch twice in that time around 500,000 miles at each engine overhaul and I don’t think they were ready for replacement yet.

 

The truck is 23 years old and the clutch peddle pad still looks factory fresh. Lol!

 

Rule of thumb on medium duty syncro’d trans is if no clutch brake it has synchro’s. Unless it is an older main for a two stick setup. Those were non syncro and non brake.

 

You just reminded me of something. I’ve got an ‘89 KW that just recently started to show the pedal through the pad. I need to invest in one for it.