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My M38 shifts up through the gears just fine, but when I down shift from 3rd to 2nd it nearly always grinds. I understand that there is no syncro for first, but shouldn't I be able to go from 3 to 2? Is double clutching required? If so, can someone explain how to properly do this. Would I leave it in 3rd, pump the clutch twice, and then shift to 2nd? Or should I go to neutral, pump the clutch twice, then shift to 2nd? Or is there something wrong with my transmission? Thanks.

3rd to 2nd gear has a synchromesh and shouldn't grind - time for a transmission rebuild. You could double clutch but it can be still difficult to match gear speeds perfectly every time - every gear mash wears them down.

Before you rebuild check the simple things:

Bell housing bolts all tight?
Clutch travel set correctly?
Shifting fork worn or incorrectly installed?

I lengthened the rod that connects the clutch pedal to the transmission by about 6 turns of the fork. It works now! I'm going to get some manuals from Midwest though, so I can properly adjust it. There was virtually no pedal "play" before. That's how the previous owner had been driving it.

Adjust for 1" of free play in the clutch pedal.

Hudson, WI!? I'm right next door in Holcombe WI!

Are you coming up to the Red Ball MV rally this week end at Tregp/Spooner, WI?

Yes Wes! A couple of friends and I are flying our planes up on Friday from New Richmond. Hope to meet you there.