No first gear, OK for now or really bad.

[Texsardo]

I am a newbie. Bought my late model 1978 124 Spider 1800 a few days ago. It starts first crank, runs like a top but the PO told me 1st gear doesn't work but he drove it ok without. Said now it is a 4 speed instead of 5 speed. Otherwise car has no visible rust and in very good condition far as I can tell. Of course it grinds and won't go into 1st. 2nd works fine with a little rev. A little whine in 3rd and very smooth 4th (which I use a lot until about 45mph, then I shift to 5th also a little whine. I am third owner since the tranny was overhauled in 2006, in California by first owner I believe. Found repair statement all wrinkled and warped but legible when I finally got glove box open. Repaired and replaced some synchronizers.
So what are the verdicts. I also have a tough time getting it into reverse. OK, I'm open to valid suggestions. I am a retired, disabled Veteran and can't do the work myself. PO not much help in history. Paid $2,200 so I think I got a good deal?

[vandor]

It should not hurt anything to not have first gear, the clutch may wear a little faster as you have to slip it more to get going in second. If it has not been abused before and you are good at not slipping it too much, it should last for a long time.
Sounds like you got a good deal!

[Texsardo]

Thanks, I keep an ear on it. By the way, I am originally from Longview, Texas.

[RRoller123]

Welcome aboard! You will find plenty of knowledgeable and friendly people here.

Here is a thread on how to post pictures directly to the forum:

http://www.fiatspider.com/f08/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=21014

And here is another picture-posting thread:

http://www.fiatspider.com/f08/viewtopic ... 12&t=23084

And here is a link to a map of Spider owner’s locations. Many forum members have listed their locations.

https://www.zeemaps.com/map?group=191825

Pete

[FiatMac]

Welcome to the Forum.

Of course it grinds and won't go into 1st. ....... I also have a tough time getting it into reverse.

A little more information about your transmission issue please. You say it grinds and won't go into 1st. Does it grind when you try to put it into first gear while standing still? Will it go into 1st with the engine off? Can you downshift into 1st (with or without double-clutching)? You also say that you have a hard time getting it into reverse. Is it that you have a hard time "finding" reverse, or does it clunk or grind slightly when going into reverse?