General description of a manual gearbox (Opel Vectra C)

Manual Transmission Specifications

Type - 5-speed, fully synchronized, 6-speed, fully synchronized

Identification code:

• 5-speed - F17/F17+, F23 and F35
• 6-speed - F40

General information

The Opel Vectra-C/Signum models under consideration use 5-speed manual transmissions F17/F17+, F23 and F35, as well as a 6-speed manual transmission F40. All boxes have full synchronization. The transmission number is applied to the nameplate or stamped/engraved on the box housing (see accompanying illustrations).

Note: Opel is constantly improving the design and configuration options of its vehicles, so depending on the engine, some other types of gearboxes may be used.

Depending on the model and configuration, there are several options for converting the power flow in the gearbox - on the F17/F17+ manual transmission, only two shafts are involved in transmitting the power flow - the primary (leading) and secondary (output) shafts, on the F23 manual transmission, the flow is converted using an additional intermediate shaft, and the F40 manual transmission is equipped with two output shafts. All manual transmission shafts are located parallel to the axes of the crankshaft and drive shafts in such a way that their teeth are in constant engagement. In the neutral position, the secondary shaft gears rotate freely on it, excluding the transmission of torque to the driven gear of the main gear.

Gear selection is performed by means of a shift lever, which is located on the floor and is located on the central console. The gearbox drive can be made in the form of a rod or cables. When selecting a gear, the drive makes the corresponding shift fork move, thereby ensuring the displacement of the synchronizer clutches in constant engagement along the assembly of the corresponding shaft. The introduction of the synchronizer clutch into engagement with the teeth of the corresponding gear on the secondary shaft makes the box provide the required gear ratio corresponding to the selected gear. The design of the synchronizers ensures the necessary smoothness and noiselessness of the shifts. The synchronizing cones are formed by the machined surfaces of the brake rings and gears.

Due to the complexity of the design of the manual transmission, the lack of commercially available replacement internal components and the need to use special equipment, the authors of this Guide do not recommend that car owners perform major repairs to the gearbox themselves. During the procedures for disassembling and assembling the gearbox, it is necessary to remove and then install many small components. It is necessary to make a lot of precise measurements and, by selecting adjusting washers, rings and spacer bushings, accurately set many gaps. Major repairs to the manual transmission should be entrusted to car service specialists. But it should be borne in mind that repairing the box in a car service workshop is a fairly expensive operation, and therefore, alternative options for replacing the failed unit with a new or refurbished one should be considered. Any useful information on repairing and replacing the transmission can be obtained at Opel service stations. But regardless of the chosen method of troubleshooting (repair or replacement), independent dismantling of the box from the car will significantly reduce material costs.