| Author |
Message |
David Prall (Davidpra)
| | Posted on Wednesday, May 23, 2001 - 3:03 pm: | |
There is a "post-engineering" fix for the second gear stick -- it involves drilling a relief passage in the lay shaft recess to allow the oil to plunge away from the rod end. It is easy to do, absolutely does not harm the gear box, and completely eliminates the problem. A how to article first appeared either in a past Forza or Prancing Horse issue -- sorry I can't remember. If you want the details, call Black Horse Motors in LA (adds in Forza), and ask for Carl -- he has done many, and can provide DIY info. |
Christiank (Christiank)
| | Posted on Tuesday, May 22, 2001 - 1:19 pm: | |
Try Pennzoil 75W-90 5 L and add 2 small cans of LSD differential additive which you can ONLY get at the GM dealer.
http://www.expensivecar.com |
Low Kai Chin (Speeddemon)
| | Posted on Tuesday, May 22, 2001 - 1:13 pm: | |
My qv used to be easy to shift until I changed the gear oil to Mobil 1. Prior to that, all servicing was done by the local agent.I think they might have added some gear additive as now the 2nd gear is difficult to engage when cold.
May decide to try some additive. Any ideas?
KC |
chris cummings (Entelechy)
| | Posted on Tuesday, May 22, 2001 - 10:31 am: | |
Just wanted to say thanks again to everyone who contributed. This really is an invaluable resource and you all seem like a great group of guys. It really puts my mind at ease to know that when I finally make my purchase that there is a group of dedicated enthusiasts who share knowledge and support each other. I found a similar "editing" chat group for fellow filmmakers and it's been a great feeling to help others out and seek help from those who are more experienced. See you on the boards!
Best,
~Chris |
Peter Boray (Gts308qv)
| | Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2001 - 10:36 pm: | |
The second gear issue changes from car to car. My
'85 QV is fine if I double clutch into 2nd but otherwise notchy if cold. Once warm it's like butter through the gears IF you rev the engine out in each gear. Pottering around in low revs the box gets a little stiff again in lower gears. It took me nearly a year to find the right car and after looking at several rougher 'carb' cars (my initial preference) I went straight to the QV for the added power and drivability compared to the 2 valve injected cars. Basically they are all beautiful, all fun to drive and all need lots of TLC. |
'75 308 GT4 (Peter)
| | Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2001 - 9:42 pm: | |
I never had a problem with the 2nd gear in my GT4, cold or warm. 4th gear occasionally crunches upon engagement. This was what it was like when my car was on the road last year. Chris, you'll soon learn to live with the heavy steering at slow speeds. I'm very happy that it doesn't have power steering, as the feel and weight at speed is excellent. |
Warren E. Smith (Magoo)
| | Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2001 - 5:02 pm: | |
My 308 GTS doesn't have any problem shifting in between any of the gears. Standard gear case lube used, no synthetics. Yes the steering is somewhat "tough " as you call it just as Kurt explained it is normal to have to exert effort to turn and park at lower speeds. You will get used to it and compensate for it in your steering at low speeds. My car is a very low mileage car and I live in Fl. where the weather is always warm or hot and the lubricants don't get a chance to stiffen up, however I don't experience shift problems. MAGOO |
chris cummings (Entelechy)
| | Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2001 - 4:45 pm: | |
Thanks guys for the near instant response! Amazing, in fact, I've spent most the day today researching the discussion chains, and I'm so impressed with how helpful and cool everyone is. Very glad to be a part of it and know I can learn from your aggregate experience (and hopefully contribute to others in my position someday!)
Thanks again,
~Chris |
Craig Dewey (Craigfl)
| | Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2001 - 4:07 pm: | |
The 2nd gear issue is a common problem although it doesn't seem to happen with every one. My 328 is impossible to shift into 2nd until the oil is warm. I have tried synthetic lubricant(Red Line) but that didn't improve it-- it's still 1st to 3rd until warm.I haven't heard about 4th gear problems but maybe some others can help on that.
As to the steering, mine seems a bit heavy until you move at all, then it's perfect. This would depend on the front tire air pressure, size, steering wheel diameter and the steering rack.
Search for information here on buying a Ferrari for the first time -- there's been lots of discussion on it. You should drive more than one and certainly have the car checked out by someone you trust. |
Kurt Kjelgaard (Kurtk328)
| | Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2001 - 4:01 pm: | |
Welcome, Chris
The shift from first to second gear on these cars when cold usually requires some caution, so your dealer is right. Have the clutch checked anyway - on the 328 there is an inspection hole on top of the bellhousing and the 308 is similar in this respect. Driven plate should be minimum 6.6 mm thick under load from the pressure plate.
The steering is heavy when at slow speed - quite normal. The kingpin offset is only a few centimetres which means that the tires are turning almost around their center of contact. This gives great friction. As soon as you are rolling the steering will ease up. Maybe you need to check the tire pressures also - could be a little low.
Lets hear more about your choice.
brgds Kurt |
chris cummings (Entelechy)
| | Posted on Saturday, May 19, 2001 - 3:26 pm: | |
I've been researching my dream since childhood of owning a Ferrari 308 GTS. The ones in my price range (allowing a reserve for repairs) are the early 80's models. I know the 81-82 are reportedly sluggish compared to the other years. My questions have to do with my first test drive (and first time driving a Ferrari - what a thrill). It was a 1982 model. The seller told me that the 2nd gear needs to warm up for a couple of miles, and to shift from 1st to 3rd when starting out. I noticed a couple slight hiccups when shifting into 4th initially as well. He told me the 2nd gear issue is common, but I suspect the clutch is beginning to wear out and he just wanted to cover it. The bigger surprise was how difficult steering was in slow, tight spaces when maneuvering around the parking spaces, etc. Is difficult steering at slow speeds a common? Maybe this is how they drive, but it seemed inordinately tough. I really appreciate any advice you could give me, and anything else you feel I should be aware of when looking for my first 308. |