2001 Acura CL Manual Transmission

The 2001 Acura CL with manual transmission features a 5-speed manual gearbox paired with either the 2.3L or 3.0L V6 engine, providing precise shifting control and enhanced driving dynamics. This guide covers operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications for the manual transmission system.

1. Transmission Overview 2. Operation Instructions 3. Maintenance Schedule 4. Technical Specifications 5. Gear Shift Pattern 6. Clutch System 7. Fluid Requirements 8. Common Issues 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty Information

Transmission Overview

The 2001 Acura CL manual transmission is a 5-speed synchronized gearbox designed for smooth shifting and durability. Key components include gear selector mechanism, shift linkage, clutch assembly, and transmission fluid system.

Component	Description
Gearbox Type	5-speed manual, front-wheel drive
Clutch Type	Hydraulic, single disc
Final Drive Ratio	4.266:1 (2.3L), 4.111:1 (3.0L)
Shift Mechanism	Cable-operated with synchronizers
Case Material	Aluminum alloy

Operation Instructions

Proper manual transmission operation ensures longevity and optimal performance.

Starting: Depress clutch fully, shift to neutral, start engine.
Shifting up: Release accelerator, depress clutch, shift to next gear, release clutch smoothly while applying throttle.
Downshifting: Depress clutch, shift to lower gear, release clutch while matching engine RPM.
Reverse gear: Come to complete stop, depress clutch, lift reverse lockout collar, shift into reverse.

WARNING! Do not rest hand on shift lever while driving; avoid riding the clutch.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures transmission reliability.

Transmission Fluid: Replace every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Clutch Fluid: Check monthly, replace every 2 years
Clutch System: Inspect every 15,000 miles
Shift Linkage: Lubricate every 30,000 miles
Transmission Mounts: Inspect during oil changes

Technical Specifications

Transmission Model: M2W4 (2.3L), M2Z4 (3.0L)
Gear Ratios:
1st: 3.266 (2.3L) / 3.266 (3.0L)
2nd: 1.888 / 1.888
3rd: 1.333 / 1.333
4th: 1.033 / 1.033
5th: 0.848 / 0.848
Reverse: 3.583 / 3.583
Fluid Capacity: 2.2 quarts (2.1 liters)
Fluid Type: Honda MTF or equivalent
Clutch Pedal Free Play: 0.4-0.8 inches (10-20mm)

Gear Shift Pattern

Standard H-pattern shift layout with reverse lockout.

	1	3	5
	2	4	R

Note: Reverse gear requires lifting the lockout collar on shift knob before engagement.

Clutch System

Hydraulic clutch system with self-adjusting mechanism.

Clutch Master Cylinder: Mounted on firewall, connected to pedal
Clutch Slave Cylinder: Mounted on transmission housing
Clutch Disc: Organic facing material
Pressure Plate: Diaphragm spring type
Flywheel: Single-mass design

CAUTION! If clutch pedal feels soft or engages near floor, check fluid level and system for leaks.

Fluid Requirements

Use only recommended transmission fluids for optimal performance.

Fluid Type	Specification	Capacity
Manual Transmission Fluid	Honda MTF or equivalent 75W-85	2.2 quarts
Clutch Fluid	DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid	As needed

Common Issues

Typical manual transmission concerns and their indications.

Grinding gears: Worn synchronizers or low fluid
Difficulty shifting: Worn clutch or linkage issues
Transmission noise: Bearing wear or gear damage
Clutch slippage: Worn clutch disc or pressure plate
Fluid leaks: Seal or gasket failure

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard to shift into gear	Low clutch fluid, worn clutch	Check fluid level, bleed system, inspect clutch components
Gear grinding	Worn synchronizers, incorrect fluid	Replace synchronizers, use proper MTF
Clutch chatter	Oil contamination, worn disc	Replace clutch assembly, check rear main seal
Transmission noise in neutral	Input shaft bearing wear	Replace input shaft bearing
Fluid leaks	Seal failure, case damage	Replace seals, repair case as needed

Warranty Information

Original transmission warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles from date of purchase. Contact Acura dealer for warranty verification and service. For technical support, visit www.acura.com or contact 1-800-382-2238.