1988 Acura Legend Manual Transmission

The 1988 Acura Legend featured a sophisticated 5-speed manual transmission system that provided smooth shifting and responsive performance. This manual transmission was paired with the 2.7-liter V6 engine, delivering power efficiently to the front wheels. Below are comprehensive sections covering specifications, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and service procedures for the manual transmission system.

1. Transmission Specifications 2. Operation Guidelines 3. Maintenance Schedule 4. Fluid Requirements 5. Shift Pattern & Controls 6. Clutch System 7. Common Issues 8. Repair Procedures 9. Safety Precautions 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Transmission Specifications

The 1988 Acura Legend manual transmission features precise engineering for optimal performance and durability.

Specification	Details
Transmission Type	5-speed manual, front-wheel drive
Gear Ratios	1st: 3.307, 2nd: 1.750, 3rd: 1.136, 4th: 0.892, 5th: 0.729, Reverse: 3.000
Final Drive Ratio	4.066:1
Synchromesh	All forward gears with triple-cone synchronizers
Case Material	Aluminum alloy with reinforced mounting points
Shift Mechanism	Cable-operated with short-throw design
Weight	Approximately 85 lbs (38.5 kg)
Compatibility	2.7L C27A V6 engine
Manufacturer	Honda Motor Company

Operation Guidelines

Proper operation ensures longevity and optimal performance of the manual transmission system.

Start vehicle: Depress clutch fully, shift to neutral, then start engine.
Shifting up: Smoothly release clutch while applying gentle pressure on shifter.
Downshifting: Rev-match by blipping throttle before engaging lower gear.
Reverse gear: Come to complete stop, depress clutch, wait 3 seconds, then engage.
Hill starts: Use parking brake for assistance on steep inclines.

WARNING! Never rest hand on shifter while driving; avoid aggressive shifting when transmission is cold.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance is crucial for transmission longevity and performance.

Transmission fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Clutch fluid: Check monthly, replace every 2 years.
Shift linkage: Lubricate every 15,000 miles.
Clutch adjustment: Inspect every 10,000 miles.
Transmission mounts: Check for wear every 25,000 miles.

CAUTION! Use only specified transmission fluid; improper fluids can cause damage.

Fluid Requirements

Transmission Fluid Type: Honda MTF or equivalent 10W-30 motor oil
Capacity: 2.2 US quarts (2.1 liters)
Change Interval: 30,000 miles or 24 months
Clutch Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Fluid Check: With vehicle on level surface, remove fill plug
Drain Plug Torque: 29 lb-ft (39 Nm)
Fill Plug Torque: 29 lb-ft (39 Nm)

Shift Pattern & Controls

The 1988 Acura Legend features a precise H-pattern shift mechanism with smooth engagement.

Shift Pattern: Reverse-left and up, then 1-3-5 top row, 2-4 bottom row.

Clutch Pedal: Hydraulic system with self-adjusting mechanism. Shift Lever: Short-throw design with positive engagement. Gear Selection: Crisp, defined gates with minimal play. Reverse Lockout: Requires lifting collar on shift knob.

Clutch System

Hydraulic clutch system provides smooth engagement and reliable operation.

Clutch Type: Single dry disc with diaphragm spring
Clutch Disc Diameter: 225mm (8.86 inches)
Master Cylinder: Tandem design with integrated reservoir
Slave Cylinder: Push-type mounted on transmission bellhousing
Clutch Pedal Free-play: 0.4-0.8 inches (10-20mm)

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

Common Issues

Understanding common transmission issues helps with early detection and prevention.

Grinding gears: Worn synchronizers or low fluid level
Difficulty shifting: Damaged shift cables or worn bushings
Clutch slippage: Worn clutch disc or contaminated surface
Transmission noise: Bearings wear or insufficient lubrication
Fluid leaks: Worn seals or damaged case
Vibration: Worn transmission mounts or CV joints

WARNING! Address transmission issues promptly to prevent costly repairs.

Repair Procedures

Basic repair procedures for common transmission maintenance tasks.

Fluid change: Remove fill plug, then drain plug; refill until fluid runs from fill hole
Clutch replacement: Remove transmission, replace clutch components, reassemble
Shift cable adjustment: Set neutral position, adjust cable length at transmission
Transmission removal: Support engine, disconnect components, remove mounting bolts
Seal replacement: Clean area, remove old seal, install new seal with proper tool

Safety Precautions

Always follow safety procedures when working on manual transmission systems.

Use jack stands when lifting vehicle; never work under vehicle supported only by jack. Wear safety glasses when working with fluids. Use proper tools for transmission removal. Disconnect battery before beginning major repairs.

CAUTION! Transmission components are heavy; use proper lifting equipment and techniques.

Warranty Information

Original warranty coverage for the 1988 Acura Legend manual transmission. Basic warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles. Powertrain coverage: 5 years/60,000 miles. Transmission specifically covered under powertrain warranty. Warranty transfers with vehicle ownership. Contact Acura dealer for specific warranty claims.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Grinding when shifting	Worn synchronizers/low fluid	Check fluid level; inspect synchronizers; replace if necessary
Difficulty engaging gear	Clutch not disengaging fully	Adjust clutch pedal; bleed hydraulic system; check master cylinder
Transmission jumps out of gear	Worn detents or shift forks	Inspect internal components; replace worn parts
Noise in neutral	Input shaft bearing wear	Replace input shaft bearing; inspect related components
Fluid leakage	Worn seals or gaskets	Identify leak source; replace seals; refill with proper fluid

Professional Service: Consult certified Acura technician for complex transmission issues.

Technical Support: Contact Acura customer service at 1-800-TO-ACURA for assistance.