Evenflow80

Hi.

I've been noticing that the stick shift of my 2004 has been getting stiffer shifting between the gears . It doesn't grind at all, just stiffer and requires more manual effort. Whereas before it was so smooth , locks into gear with just a flick of the wrist.

What is that ? The clutch ? I've never replaced the clutch

Heel Til I Die

iTrader: (2)

How many miles on the clutch, TO bearing? When was the last time you changed the trans fluid? What trans fluid are you using?

There are several variables to consider that could be contributing.

Evenflow80

hey thanks for replying. I got the car in 2007 with 38K miles on it, and now its at 142K miles. I have never changed the clutch or any of the clutch / transmisison parts at all.

not sure what tranny fluid I am using though.... I will try to check for you

I appreciate the response!

Heel Til I Die

iTrader: (2)

If it's been a while (or ever) since you changed the trans fluid, it's probably a good idea to do so. I like redline MT fluid and my shifts are nice and smooth. But, it's gotten mixed results. I've read where some say it's more "notchy" and then go back to Nissan's fluid.

icer5160

iTrader: (4)

If you're running an 04 Z with a 6MT and you're near 150k miles, I would have the clutch, TO bearing, & pilot bushing replaced (Also look into a chromoly clutch fork pivot ball and the cast clutch fork if your Z doesn't have one already). I would also replace the clutch master and slave cylinders, they may not be leaking or bad, but given the mileage and how cheap the parts are, it's better to be safe than sorry, preventative maintenance keeps your Smiles Per Gallon high! Since you have an 04, it's possible the syncros are wearing out. If you start experiencing serious grinding issues with any of the gears, look into replacing the transmission with a CD009. Nissan beefed up the syncros in this newer version of the transmission. In your situation is doesn't sound like you're having any major issues yet. Lastly, I would drain the trans fluid and replace with one of 3 choices (in no particular order) Motul, OEM Nissan fluid, Redline MT85. I've personally used all 3, here are my thoughts on them.

1) Motul MT90 is excellent if you drive the car hard (track days). Needs to get hot for the best shifting experience, not great for daily driving & expensive.
2) OEM Nissan fluid is great for daily driving. Diminishing returns as the mileage piles on the transmission (worn syncros).
3) Redline MT85 to me, gives the best of both worlds. It feels like a short warm-up period is in order for smooth shifts (similar to OEM), however offers excellent all around performance, shifts were smoother for me compared to Motul.

Good Luck!
-Icer