Rough MT shifting... sorta

1996 Tacoma LX 3.4L 4x4 manual.

After my daughter had her Corolla transmission + clutch worked on, I noticed how much smoother the shifting is in her car versus my Taco. Mine is not really bad, but it just seems a little stickier than I'd like it to be (or should be).

I went ahead and bled the clutch line and replaced the transmission oil (Red Line MT90 75W90, GL4). It feels perhaps a bit better, but still not like my daughter's Corolla.

If you were me, what would you try next and in what order? Thanks!

 

How long ago did you replace the transmission oil in the Tacoma? It could take a few miles before the new oil is able to properly work into all of the surfaces. Obviously they are different vehicles so they won't feel identical but are you feeling the difference in the clutch or the transmission? In order of expense and labor:

If you are feeling it in the clutch then take a look at your clutch spring and perhaps it is time to replace with a linear spring.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/clutch-squeak-linear-spring-swap-tw-how-to.159429/

You could also try replacing the shifter socket/seat with Marlin parts. I just ordered a set but have not yet installed them but based on reviews it should tighten everything up.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/shifter-bushings.442474/

https://www.marlincrawler.com/shifter-parts/new-heavy-duty-seat-socket-combo

Finally, it may be time to look at rebuilding your clutch master/slave cylinders. Fairly easy to do and rebuild kits are available from Toyota.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/how-to-clutch-slave-cylinder-rebuild.197558/

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/master-cylinder-rebuild-kits.548206/

 

i would change out the shift lever bushing.

 

I don't think a RWD truck will ever shift as smoothly as a FWD car (both manual transmissions). But the shifter bushing is known to crumble apart on these trucks and makes the gear switching harder than it should be, I would start there.

 

You have a shifter. She has a cable.

If you want/need primo trans fluid try

$33 Ford XT-M5-QS Full Synthetic Manual Transmission Fluid - 1 Quart , black

Ford XT-M5-QS. OTC @ a Ford dealer. If the parts guy has a glazed look, tell him it's an SVO product.

All early Miata's came with truck manual transmissions out of the parts bin. This stuff really makes them behave like butta.