Re: Alfa Romeo 33 16v 1st Gear Crunch

["Daniel I. Trnka" <daniel@trnka.com>]

> However, when shifting into first gear I occasionally get the dreaded 
> gear crunch.  

The Alfasud/33 transmission has a particularily weak first gear 
synchro.   The "crunch" happens mostly when the trans fluid is at or 
near operating temparature and as you've probably guessed it is not 
very good for the synchro in the long run.  To avoid it you have 2 
options:
  1. Hold the clutch in for 3-5 seconds before engaging into 1st.
  2. In a pinch, put it in 2nd gear and immediately shift into 1st.

Option 2 works very well.  I've owned several Alfasuds/33s and never 
had early 2nd gear synchro wear because of this technique.  
Once you drive an Alfa you'll never go "back".  ;-)

Sincerely,
Daniel

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Moulton Data Services, Inc.
Attn: Daniel I. Trnka
11949 Sherman Rd.
N. Hollywood, CA 91605

http   : www.moulton-data.com
Phone  : (818) 503-4222 ext. 234
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E-Mail : daniel@trnka.com

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