Clutch or Tranny problem?

[jce132]

Wanted to phish for some ideas before I start unbolting things... So the symptoms are a mild metallic grinding sound from somewhere around the engine, clutch fluid brown, when cold tranny grinds slightly when shifting from 1st to 2nd, occasional bucking or jerking while driving which is very slight and rapid. The grinding sound is most audible in 4th at 40mph and 2k to 3k rpm. Being a 91 DSM, these symptoms may be multiple problems, but not being a mechanic myself any ideas would be appreciated.

 

[jmerrill]

Two things come to mind. 1. Your synchro is wearing out. Which is never fun.
2. You clutch isn't disengaging the whole way. Check the slave and master cylinder for leaks and stuff.
How long have you driven it like this?

 

[jce132]

Yeah, I'm starting to think the grinding gear is the syncro going out. I only just noticed this the other day, previously the car ran great. I noticed the noise seems to be coming more from the driver's side of the engine, I'll have to check out the axle's and make sure all the cv joints and splines are good.