1988 Acura Legend Manual Transmission

The 1988 Acura Legend features a sophisticated 5-speed manual transmission system designed for smooth shifting and optimal performance. This premium luxury sedan combines Honda's engineering excellence with Acura's commitment to quality, offering precise gear changes, durable synchronizers, and reliable clutch operation. Below are comprehensive sections covering specifications, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and service procedures.

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

Transmission Specifications

The 1988 Acura Legend manual transmission is a fully synchronized 5-speed unit with precision-machined gears and durable construction.

Specification	Details
Transmission Type	5-speed manual, fully synchronized
Gear Ratios	1st: 3.307, 2nd: 1.750, 3rd: 1.136, 4th: 0.892, 5th: 0.702, Reverse: 3.000
Final Drive Ratio	4.066:1
Transmission Fluid	Honda MTF or equivalent 10W-30 motor oil
Fluid Capacity	2.1 quarts (2.0 liters)
Clutch Type	Hydraulic, single dry disc
Shift Linkage	Direct cable-operated mechanism
Case Material	Aluminum alloy
Weight	Approximately 85 lbs (38.5 kg)

Gear Ratios and Operation

Understanding gear ratios and proper shifting techniques ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1st Gear (3.307): Low-speed acceleration and starting from stop
2nd Gear (1.750): City driving and moderate acceleration
3rd Gear (1.136): Highway merging and passing
4th Gear (0.892): Cruising at moderate speeds
5th Gear (0.702): Highway fuel economy cruising
Reverse (3.000): Reverse movement with safety lockout

OPERATING TIP: Always depress clutch fully before shifting. Avoid "riding" the clutch pedal.

Clutch System

The hydraulic clutch system provides smooth engagement and reliable operation.

Clutch Disc: 225mm diameter, organic facing material
Pressure Plate: Diaphragm spring type
Master Cylinder: 5/8" bore diameter
Slave Cylinder: 3/4" bore diameter
Clutch Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Pedal Free Play: 0.4-0.8 inches (10-20mm)

WARNING! Never rest foot on clutch pedal while driving. This causes premature wear.

Fluid Requirements

Proper fluid maintenance is essential for transmission longevity and smooth operation.

Fluid Type	Specification	Change Interval
Transmission Fluid	Honda MTF or 10W-30 motor oil API SE, SF or higher	Every 30,000 miles
Clutch Fluid	DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid	Every 2 years or 30,000 miles

CAUTION! Use only recommended fluids. Incorrect fluid can damage synchronizers.

Shift Pattern and Techniques

Proper shifting technique ensures smooth operation and extends transmission life.

Shift Pattern: H-pattern with reverse lockout (push down and left)

Fully depress clutch pedal before shifting
Move shift lever smoothly and deliberately
Release clutch pedal gradually while applying throttle
For downshifting, rev-match by briefly increasing engine RPM
Use engine braking by downshifting when slowing
Always come to complete stop before engaging reverse

Tip: Avoid "power shifting" or forcing gears. If gear doesn't engage easily, release clutch and try again.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance prevents premature wear and ensures reliable operation.

Service	Interval	Procedure
Transmission Fluid Change	30,000 miles	Drain and refill with specified fluid
Clutch Fluid Change	30,000 miles or 2 years	Bleed hydraulic system, replace fluid
Clutch Adjustment	15,000 miles	Check pedal free play, adjust if necessary
Shift Linkage Inspection	15,000 miles	Check for wear, lubricate as needed
Transmission Mount Check	30,000 miles	Inspect for cracks or deterioration

Common Issues

Understanding common transmission issues helps with early detection and prevention.

Grinding Gears: Worn synchronizers or low fluid level
Difficulty Shifting: Worn clutch, hydraulic issues, or linkage problems
Clutch Slipping: Worn clutch disc or pressure plate
Fluid Leaks: Damaged seals or loose drain/fill plugs
Noise in Neutral: Worn input shaft bearing
Vibration: Worn transmission mount or unbalanced components

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Gear grinding during shifts	Worn synchronizers, low fluid	Check fluid level, replace if contaminated. If persists, inspect synchronizers.
Difficulty engaging gears	Clutch not disengaging fully	Check clutch hydraulic system, adjust pedal free play, bleed system.
Clutch pedal feels soft/spongy	Air in hydraulic system	Bleed clutch hydraulic system, check for leaks.
Transmission noisy in neutral	Input shaft bearing wear	Replace input shaft bearing. Requires transmission disassembly.
Jumping out of gear	Worn shift forks or detents	Inspect and replace worn internal components.
Fluid leaks	Damaged seals or loose plugs	Replace seals, tighten drain/fill plugs to specification.

Service Procedures

Basic service procedures for maintaining your manual transmission.

Fluid Change: Place on level surface, remove fill plug first, then drain plug. Refill until fluid runs out fill hole.
Clutch Bleeding: Use pressure bleeder or two-person method. Start at slave cylinder, work upward.
Pedal Adjustment: Adjust pushrod length to achieve 0.4-0.8 inches free play.
Shift Linkage Lubrication: Apply white lithium grease to pivot points and bushings.
Transmission Mount Replacement: Support engine, remove old mount, install new mount with proper torque.

WARNING! Transmission service requires proper tools and knowledge. Consult professional if unsure.

Warranty Information

The 1988 Acura Legend manual transmission was covered under Acura's original 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Current vehicles may be eligible for goodwill repairs at Acura's discretion. Contact Acura Client Services for specific warranty inquiries.

Support: Acura Client Services: 1-800-382-2238, www.acura.com