First and Second gears are clunky...

[sneaky_pete]

Originally Posted by conehead

I also autoxed a new Miata recently and got to enjoy a proper shift feel. This is still the worst shifting sports car I have ever driven.

the car reviewers rave about it but in stock form it is nothing too spectacular. I have done the following to my car and the improvement is night and day:

MTEC shift Springs
MTEC Clutch Spring
Adjusted clutch travel
Whiteline Positive Shift Kit
Whiteline Differential mount in cradle insert bushings
Penrite GL4 Transmission Oil
Penrite ShiftEZE

It is all snickety snick once warmed up. My first to second shift still binds a bit when it is cold but it is way better than before. Takes a lot less time to settle down too.

[anticubus]

Originally Posted by humfrz

Yep, an S2000 and a 5 speed Miata transmission will definitely spoil ya.

Coming from the other side of this argument (C59 in 1st gen Matrix and whatever 6 speed rubbery bs on the 2nd gen Mazda 3 2.5L), this shifter is amazing. Even better than the WRXs I've tried.

I can't imagine it getting better, I love hearing first gear go whirRRRRrrrrr and I've never had this clunky, notchy stuff everyone complains about. Makes me want a dog box for the street, but I do occasionally have to let other people drive it

[chipmunk]

Just a guess, but... the shifter rod linkage joints & bushings could have been worn too much?

A firm, intentional shift should engage the gears without issues. Sometimes the synchros take a little wearing in, but they are usually pretty darn good when it comes to making sure that gears are smoothly engaged. The V-shaped teeth sometimes could have little dulling/pitting on the tip that could cause some hesitation. Maybe regular oil changes might keep the surfaces clean for friction-free sliding