I heven't fixed my MINI yet as I'm still awaiting parts. I got a 2004 Getrag in my car. What do you think is the problem? Will bearings sort out my issue?
Some people are telling me gearbox cone, whatever that is... I would like your opinion, as I'm currently very limited on cash so trying to make the best I can with what I got.
My gearbox is running smooth at the moment with this ugly noise, Reverse also goes in nice and smooth like always, just when driving in gear it sounds like a tractor.
Ahh I see, I bought a getrag bearing rebuild kit to try rebuild it as I assumed its the bearings, but the guy is saying I need a new gearbox as it has to be something with the cones :/ (whatever those are in a gearbox) but as I said, it still runs very very smooth... including reverse gear.
The cones are for the synchronizers and provide smooth friction surfaces for easy engagement of the shifting mechanism/synchronizers. I find the explanation strange since you indicate you have no problems shifting. I would have expected it would be difficult to get into gear.
Do you have any noise sitting at idle in neutral? Any noise that changes with clutch pedal engagement?
Is the noise only when the car is in motion and in gear?
Did you check for transmission oil leakage? Low trans oil levels will also result in a grinding-like noise when driving.
If the syncro hubs/cones are worn you will get a crunch as you select the gear with worn hub if you try to change gear quickly, thats the normal symptom of those.
The noise is only when the car is in motion and in gear. Gears go in and out inc. reverse, very smoothly. Sometimes its a tad 'hard' when going through the slot but very smooth. No crunches when selecting gears.
From your description it sounds like the input shaft bearing or low transmission oil level. Regarding the bearing, unfortunately the only way you're going to get a definitive answer is to pull the trans.
The good news is you'll eventually resolve your problem. The bad news is that on the Mini, the gearbox is a bugger to get to.
Thanks everyone Well I got my hands on all the bearings, so will be doing a full rebuild. I will keep you guys updated, taking it on Monday to a friend to help me out with it
So MINI is still stuck on the jack cause my gearbox is stuck there in the UK cause of the snow and I'm very frustrsted. To top that, my car is on a jack taking half my mechanics garage and they are frustrated with me.
Why MINI parts are so hard to source here in Malta... Grrrrr
I only love british cars but need a reliable one. I love my MINI so will try stick to it, thinking of getting a classic mini and restore it, if this one ever needs to find a new home.
Though, to find someone that takes care of it, as much as I do.. it's one tricky sale.
EDIT: @The Nun.... I bloody hope not haha or a friggin yaris... No no... There is no soul and passion in those cars. I bought a MINI because it's a reliable car (most of the time), its fun and nimble on the road and friggin' great handling, especially on a tiny island like this.
Sad to comment about it's clutch and gearbox issues... that are known flaws and BMW never took care of them and their power steering.
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Getrag Gearbox sounds like a tractor 
Well I got my hands on all the bearings, so will be doing a full rebuild. I will keep you guys updated, taking it on Monday to a friend to help me out with it 
