1966 Muncie Screaming

[P.J. McGrath]

The Muncie M21 in my '66 started whining (screaming!) in 1st through 3rd gear, sounds fine in 4th. I'm told it could be the input shaft bearing. I looked at the transmission breakdown and my guess is the countershaft bearing? Is this correct? Am I looking at a total rebuild here or is this something I could do in my garage. If it's not something a guy could do in his garage, should I have the transmission shop just replace the bearing or would it be worthwhile at that point to just rebuild the whole thing. Your thoughts are welcome.....P.J.

[Patrick H.]

Re: 1966 Muncie Screaming

PJ,

See the most recent archives for a few threads.
I rebuilt my Muncie this winter, and found it relatively easy. It costs just $165 for a rebuild kit with everything, and an extra $20 each for the video on how to do it as well as the proper wrench for the front retainter. If you or a friend has a press, it's the only other "extra" tool you may need.

See www.4speeds.com for the parts, video and wrench.

I'd do another one in a second. I found it much easier than a motor. Make sure you have enough fluid in the trans for now, then this winter when your car is off the road, remove the transmission and have at it.

Oh, I have a lift, and it made the removal and reinstallation a piece of cake. Borrow one of those if you can, else I've done it from below, too.

Patrick

[P.J. McGrath]

Thanks Pat.....P.J. *NM*

[Chuck R.]

Re: I'm on my way as well

I also purchased the tape that Pat speaks about and found it very helpful in getting over the "Should I tackle This" jitters.

So far I've got my M-20 completely broken down on the bench and am inspecting individual components to either dress up or replace.

The press is a plus for sure but the tape even goes so far as to go through the entire re-build process without using one.

No big deal, really.

Just a little support from the peanut gallery P.J.

Chuck

[Scott Marzahl]

Re: 1966 Muncie Screaming

I used the Chevy shop manual and found it to be a very straightforward process.
A press and an old piece of broomstick when assemblying come in very handy.

[P.J. McGrath]

Re: 1966 Muncie Screaming

Thanks to everyone. This sounds like the perfect winter project. I'll let you guys know how it turns out!!.....P.J.