Go on then, on my 1983 308 I had the issue of 2nd gear not be available until the box oil had heated up some. I also get this 'feature' on my 96 355. Can anyone explain to me why this is so? Also, does this happen on the 360 model? Merchants Rob
Sounds like an adjustment problem, is it only second gear, what gearbox oil are you using and when was the last time it was replaced? MW
On my 98 355 I can select 2nd from cold but it requires quite a "forceful" placement of the stick. After the first time it's fine. Therefore 9 times out of 10 I shift 1-3 until the oil warms. 2nd gear is always the most difficult to select even when warm, especially at low revs around town.
I have that issue on my Dino, but I couldnt tell you why. It would be interesting to find out though.
Mal, This is a common problem on the "older Ferrari's", but as syncromesh designs have changed over the years the problem has almost disapeared. On your Dino, assuming the gear adjustment is correct and the oil of the right type the best thing you can do is go from 1st to 3rd until the gearbox oil has warmed up. Using Redline oil will certainly help the selection process - if you do a search on "redline" you will find lots of information. MW
There have been plenty of discussions about this in the tech and vintage sections, this was the best explanation I ever came across. Hope this link works. Cheers Simon http://ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?p=192784&highlight=article#post192784
Actually this is a very common problem on 355's, 348, 328, etc. There are a few threads on this in the history section. Without going into detail (since the threads do) - once your car is warm (actually if you let your car run for about 3 - 5 minutes before taking off - 2nd gear will work fine. If I remember correctly it has to do with the way 2nd gear linkage and oil temp/lubrication when cold. If you are having issues other than just 2nd - you probably need a little adjustment. Before my 30K service - I had the same issue - After my 30K service on my 355 - I did not have any of the problems - (new fluids and the system flushed). My assumption would be after a few years - the problem with 2nd will creep back in. Just don't force it - if you have to drive it "cold" - just go to 3rd gear. Rich
