What's the story on the synchros in the STi 5-speeds? I have a -BCAA tranny (version 3 non-RA) and first gear is as hard to shift into as my WRX ever was. Is it the same synchro design? I'm using some Redline GL-4 stuff in there because it's supposed to be more synchro-friendly than the GL-5 stuff, but it doesn't feel it. I just realized yesterday at ye olde rally-x that going from second to first at high speeds (well, higher than 5mph anyway) is essential. I guess if all else fails I can work on rev matching, but I'm hoping there's a mechanical fix.

Same synchros to my understanding. Sounds to me like your tranny is tired and getting due for a rebuild. There's no magic elixir that will change that. There are a few that can delay it, but that crunch is there to stay until you rebuild it...

But brand new WRX trannies have the same problem--I doubt every suby tranny that can't shift into first easily is in need of a rebuild.

classic subaru 5 speed design. every one does it. it gets better as you go up through the years of trannies, but not by much.

you think they actually want you to go into first at 30?

i woulndnt recomend doing it either, know of a few trannies in need of a rebuild because of it.

My Ver 6 STi trans is the best shifting trans I EVER driven, and I haven driven my share. New design, low mileage, dumb luck?... I dont know but I am happy. From what i understand the Ver 5/6 are upgraded from the 3/4 but I really dont know what changed. Also GM syncromesh is amazing! ;)

my 93 with 176k miles still shifts in to 1st at 25 but my year old 05 lgt complains

its a crap shoot .. if you want sycrnos that work buy a 6 speed

All my 5MTs have been able to downshift to 1st at around 20mph...original '96 Brighton 5MT, '96(?) JDM WRX 5MT amd my '93 Legacy turbo 5MT
I have used both Redline MTL and Amsoil synthetic fluid.
First tranny had a bearing going, next one broke a shift fork and the last one is going strong.

I had the same issue with my tranny. Sometimes, I would be sitting at a light and it wouldn't go into 1st and I would have to start out in second. Very frustrating.

When it would "lock" out first gear at low speeds (10-15mph) I could get it to unlock by gently putting pressure on the shifter against the synchros and blipping the throttle. It would slide right in every time. I was so used to doing this that I forgot that it was even an issue.

now the shuddering ... thats one thing I won't miss!