Metal Flakes in the Pan + Rough Shifts

[goturbo]

Hey all,

I have 105k on my 5 speed manual transmission, connected to a 1.8t. Today I had the tranny fluid changed, and there was a pretty substantial amount of metal shavings and pieces in the fluid *eep*. (Substantial = large sand grain sized flakes, and enough of them to cover a nickle-sized area in a couple layers.) My mechanic says that's a lot, and that my transmission is probably failing.

First off, how normal is this? Does it mean my tranny is on its last legs? Secondly, how much is a replacement transmission in terms of parts cost? If I absolutely HAVE to replace the tranny, is a used six speed an easy transplant possibility?

I've had grabby shifts for a long while in this car... it's tough to get into gear at times, and the shifter feel is far from buttery. Otherwise, there's no grinding, no slipping, no weird noises that I can tell.

Any thoughts? Thanks a bunch.

-g

[hannaco]

A small amount of fine metal shavings is normal. That happens when the teeth mesh. Were the chinks of metal all the same color?
You could have a bearing that has worn causing the gears to be slightly out of alignment.
As for how long? Very hard to say. Could go out today, or last another five years.
You could put in a 6 speed, but you would also have to add the correct starter, and the correct axles.