Hey folks, how bad is the MT82 transmission in the newer Mustangs? I had an '06 GT with a 5-speed that I absolutely loved, but I’m eyeing a 2017-2019 model and I’m a bit nervous after reading some of the online reviews. For those of you who’ve experienced it, how’s it holding up?
Honestly, the MT82 isn’t the best. I get locked out of 2nd gear at least once a week. I changed the transmission fluid which helped a bit, but it’s still an issue. It was happening every day before the change.
Mine was stuck in 2nd gear all the time, grinding and popping out of gear. I ended up sending it to Calimer for a rebuild, had to replace 3 gears. I also installed an Exedy Mach 500 clutch and flywheel and switched to an MGW shifter. It’s like a dream now, but I’ve got to finish the 1,000-mile break-in period before really testing it.
I’m having similar issues with my '16 GT. It’s frustrating.
Yeah, I’ve heard upgrading the clutch and flywheel can fix it, but I’d like to be sure before spending a grand.
I had weird shifting issues too, but a Blowfish Racing shifter support bracket solved them for me. It improved the shifting feel and got rid of the lockouts and grinding on the 1-2 shift. Not as good as a Tremec, but way better. I’d consider that if you can find one.
Thanks for sharing! I’m looking at a Barton shifter for around $200. Do you think that’s worth a shot since I can’t find the Blowfish bracket?
Same here. Upgraded my clutch but now my clutch pedal feels sticky and doesn’t come up properly. It just pops back up.
Removing the assist spring is supposed to help with that issue. Mine is gone and I haven’t had any sticking problems since.
Be cautious with that. Without the spring, the clutch might not fully disengage, and the throw-out bearing can wear out quickly. I replaced mine three times in six months because of it.
My car came without the assist spring. I tried to put a new one in, but the perch was removed, so I couldn’t install it.
I used to have issues with my stock clutch and even more with a McLeod, but now with an Exedy, the MT82 shifts smoothly. Definitely worth the upgrade!
Thanks for the tip. I was considering a McLeod next year, but I think I’ll go with Exedy now. Should I also get a new flywheel?
Yes, definitely. I had the full twin-disk setup with Exedy and it made a huge difference. Also, swapping out the shifter mount bushing (I used a Steeda one) helped a lot. You’ll wonder how you ever managed with the stock one!