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I have a 2002 non vtec 5spd manual (I believe that makes it the DX, has power windows). When driving in 3rd or 5th gear the car will "pop" out of gear and be either in neutral or almost in the neutral position. This leads me to believe I will need to replace the trans. My question is if I have the d17a1 trans which trans will fit? Just the a1? The vtec? Any from this generation?

 
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Ah, the classic synchro issue with the D17 tranny. Usually only occurs with 2nd.. First I've heard of it doing it in 3rd and 5th gear.

Any D17 transmission will fit. The tranny mated to the D17A1 (like you have) has longer gears than it's D17A2 counterpart. That said, if you get your hands on a D17A2 tranny, it'll accelerate a hair faster. Theoretically it'll give you a lower overall top speed.

I read (and tried) changing my MT oil in my 2002 with GM Synchromesh and it worked pretty well for a while. Realistically, it was just a band-aid on a wound. The problem I had was also less frequent when I replaced my tranny-side motor mount.

 
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Great info man thanks! Anywhere you would recommend me finding one reasonably priced? Also in the mean time how dangerous is it to drive as is? Could I potentially just avoid those gears minimally/entirely until I locate a suitable replacement?

 
Rep Power: 512

Local wrecking yard would be the best bet. But it's a gamble for condition.

If you want something quality that'll last you, take a look at Synchrotech Transmissions. Last I checked it was just under 900 shipped, and they organize for your tranny to be picked up and freighted back to them as a core charge. Wanna avoid those issues in the future with the new tranny? Email or call em and ask how much their carbon synchros would cost for them to install then ship to you.

As far as driveability, you'll be fine. It'll be annoying as hell with the gears popping out. Shift out of 2nd late and avoid 5th if you can? lol. Does it happen every time or is it sporadic? If the latter, do an MT fluid change and it'll help alleviate the symptoms.

 
Rep Power: 222

I swapped a VTEC trans into my gold 05, direct swap, no problems you can do it in your driveway. Change the clutch while you're in there. Definitely get faster acceleration.

 
Rep Power: 224

Is it also difficult to get into gear? Could be the shifter pivot ball.

https://www.civicforums.com/forums/3...-problems.html

 
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Popping out shouldn't be an internal issue. Usually it is being popped out because the transmission/engine are moving more than they should; or the linkage is moving more than it should.

Check

-transmission mounts
-engine mounts
-shift linkage bushings
-shifter assembly

 
Rep Power: 367

Actually, that was a pretty common issue in the early years cars...
so that's what Josh is referring to.