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Is it a stick shift or a paddle shift?

 

Just had this problem yesterday on my F1; I know the clutch needs to be replaced, but just wanted to start it up to keep the parts moving until it gets done. From N kept requesting 1st and would feel 'something' but it wouldn't go. Took about 5 tries and finally it went in 1st....

 

I've heard about this with a couple of F1-equipped cars. If its 6-spd, though, try shifting into reverse and then immediately into 1st. Worth a shot.

 

Yea, If its a 6 speed, try shifting from another gear then into 1st. IF my car sits for more than a week i usually have do shift up to 2nd then 1st

 

It has to do with the alignment of the rocker arm control fork inside the gear box, or the synchros. When the gear box is in neutral the control rocker arms should all be lined up, so that the control fork can move easily over them. If for what ever reason the rocker for the gear you want to select is not aligned properly you won't be able to select the gear.

Then we have the issue of the synchros. If the synchro sleeve has grab the synchro ring before the teeth on both have aligned enabling the sleeve to lock on to the gear, then you won't be able to select the gear you want.

What to do?

Well, if you have a traditional stick then you can try a few of things.

1) Jiggle the stick back and forth while in neutral to see if you can get the rockers all lined up.

2) As others have suggested, try shifting into another gear and then into the gear you would like.

Both of those should help with alignment issues of the rockers and fork.

3) While the car is in neutral try double clutching it. With the clutch engaged rev the engine (again while in neutral) then press the clutch in and try selecting the gear you want. This step should help you if your synchro and selector ring aren't lined up.

As for what to do on an F1???? I dunno for sure, but try switching back and forth between reverse and 1st? Or runing throught the gear selection?

Hope this helps.