1986 Toyota Celica GTS Manual Transmission

The 1986 Toyota Celica GTS features a 5-speed manual transmission (S53) coupled with the 2.4L 2S-GE engine producing 135 horsepower. This third-generation Celica (A60 chassis) offers precise shifting, durable construction, and sporty driving dynamics. Below are key sections covering specifications, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical details.

1. Transmission Specifications 2. Gear Ratios and Operation 3. Shifting Techniques 4. Fluid Requirements 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Clutch System 7. Common Issues 8. Troubleshooting 9. Technical Service Bulletins 10. Warranty Information

Transmission Specifications

The S53 5-speed manual transmission is designed for the 2S-GE engine with smooth shifting and reliable performance.

Specification	Details
Transmission Model	S53 5-speed manual
Gear Ratios	1st: 3.287, 2nd: 1.958, 3rd: 1.258, 4th: 0.914, 5th: 0.783, Reverse: 3.768
Final Drive Ratio	4.10:1
Fluid Capacity	2.1 quarts (2.0 liters)
Fluid Type	75W-90 GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil
Shift Pattern	H-pattern with reverse left and up
Synchromesh	All forward gears
Clutch Type	Hydraulic, single disc dry clutch
Weight	Approximately 75 lbs (34 kg)

Gear Ratios and Operation

Understanding gear ratios and proper shifting operation for optimal performance.

1st Gear (3.287): For initial acceleration and low-speed maneuvering
2nd Gear (1.958): Smooth transition for city driving
3rd Gear (1.258): Balanced performance for suburban roads
4th Gear (0.914): Overdrive for highway cruising
5th Gear (0.783): Fuel-efficient overdrive for high-speed travel
Reverse (3.768): Low ratio for controlled backing

WARNING! Always come to complete stop before engaging reverse gear to prevent transmission damage.

Shifting Techniques

Proper shifting techniques ensure smooth operation and extended transmission life.

Fully depress clutch pedal before shifting
Shift smoothly and deliberately - avoid forcing gears
Use rev-matching for downshifts to reduce synchromesh wear
Do not rest hand on shift lever while driving
Avoid "power shifting" or quick-clutch techniques
Use engine braking appropriately in lower gears

CAUTION! Never shift into reverse while moving forward; always use clutch fully when shifting.

Fluid Requirements

Recommended Fluid: 75W-90 API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil
Capacity: 2.1 quarts (2.0 liters)
Change Interval: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Drain Plug: 24mm hex head located on transmission bottom
Fill Plug: 24mm hex head on transmission side
Fluid Type Alternative: Toyota Genuine Manual Transmission Fluid

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal transmission performance and longevity.

Every 7,500 miles: Check transmission fluid level, inspect for leaks

Every 15,000 miles: Inspect clutch hydraulic system, check shift linkage

Every 30,000 miles: Replace transmission fluid, inspect clutch disc

Every 60,000 miles: Complete transmission inspection, check mounts

As needed: Adjust clutch pedal free play (0.2-0.6 inches)

Clutch System

Hydraulic clutch system specifications and operation.

Clutch Type: Single disc dry clutch with diaphragm spring
Clutch Disc Diameter: 215mm (8.46 inches)
Master Cylinder: 5/8 inch bore diameter
Slave Cylinder: 3/4 inch bore diameter
Fluid Type: DOT 3 brake fluid
Pedal Free Play: 0.2-0.6 inches (5-15mm)

Tip: Bleed hydraulic system if clutch feels spongy or engagement point changes.

Common Issues

Typical problems encountered with the S53 transmission and their causes.

Grinding Gears: Worn synchromesh, low fluid, improper shifting
Difficulty Shifting: Worn clutch, hydraulic issues, linkage problems
Transmission Noise: Worn bearings, low fluid level, gear damage
Fluid Leaks: Worn seals, damaged case, loose drain/fill plugs
Clutch Slippage: Worn clutch disc, contaminated friction surface
Vibration: Worn transmission mounts, unbalanced driveshaft

WARNING! Address transmission issues promptly to prevent costly repairs.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Gear grinding	Low fluid, worn synchros	Check fluid level, replace if contaminated; inspect synchromesh
Hard to shift	Clutch not disengaging	Adjust clutch pedal, bleed hydraulic system, check master cylinder
Jumping out of gear	Worn detents, shift forks	Inspect shift mechanism, replace worn components
Transmission noise	Low fluid, bearing wear	Check fluid level, inspect bearings for wear
Fluid leaks	Worn seals, loose plugs	Replace seals, tighten drain/fill plugs to specification
Clutch slippage	Worn disc, weak pressure plate	Replace clutch components, inspect flywheel surface

Technical Service Bulletins

Factory-issued technical updates and improvements for the S53 transmission.

TSB 86-015: Revised shift linkage bushings for improved feel
TSB 87-022: Updated synchromesh material for 2nd and 3rd gears
TSB 88-007: Improved clutch hydraulic line routing
TSB 89-013: Transmission mount reinforcement procedure
TSB 90-008: Updated fluid specifications for cold climate operation

Warranty Information

Original warranty coverage and service information.

Basic Warranty: 12 months/12,000 miles from date of purchase

Powertrain Coverage: 36 months/36,000 miles including transmission

Service Network: Authorized Toyota dealerships nationwide

Claims: Contact local Toyota dealer with proof of purchase and maintenance records

Exclusions: Damage from abuse, improper maintenance, or unauthorized modifications

For technical support, contact Toyota Customer Service at 1-800-331-4331 or visit www.toyota.com