Protege Manual Transmission Differential Problem

[tiredoctor]

I have significant experience with cars, but limited specifically to Mazda.

1999 Protege DX 4dr sedan, 1.6 ltr. Man. 5 Spd. Trans. 120Kmiles

Without any significant driving event, it suddently began to bang, and seem to bind on turning. I jacked it up, and found that it appears as though the differential locks. I can spin one wheel about 300 degrees and the other spin opposite like expected. However, continuing to spin the wheel, and I can feel the differential seem to bind and lock. Then both wheel spin in the same direction and are in fact locked together. This would explain the bind and banging on turning. If I force it, differential will snap and unlock, but only until next revolution.

As a Mazda tech, can you advise me on the best method to investigate and correct the problem. Does the diff. share fluid with the trans? Can this be fixed in the car or should I begin removal?

Thanks, Dean

[RaWrZie]

My car seems to have the same problem. Did you ever figure it out? (Yes I k kw this is old but the problem is new to me. :P)

[IukekiniProtege]

The differential shares the same fluid as the rest of the trans. With my 1.6 I had the same issue until one day it grenaded, I just replace the trans. It cost me like $325 shipped from LKQ for a used transmission. Cant really help ya with what is wrong though other than something inside is not happy.

[RaWrZie]

What's LKQ? I went to a junkyard and they are asking 550...

[IukekiniProtege]

LKQ is a company that has several locations throughout the country, and they are basically a salvage place. Can msotly fin their stuff on ebay, but i believe they have a site too.

[RaWrZie]

Damn I just called and didn't have good luck as you did. :P! Lol. Off to look and hope someone sells one here. >_>!

THANK YOU BTW! :)

[shane02pro5]

Try car-parts.com also