1936 Singer Le Mans- noisey 1st gear

[Dentman]

I have just purchased a 1936 Singet Le Mans. i am a Singer novice although I have been a Cyclecar enthusiast for several years

1st gear has a nasty noise that is not the normal straight gear grind. Is this a common issue ?

Who is the best engineer to repair it. I am based in South London.

David

[ColinB]

Have you joined the Singer clubs David? If you have I suggest you contact the local reps or the club Le Mans specialists for advice. If you haven't send me an Email and I'll put you in touch.

[cev196]

First gear is notoriously noisy, but depends what you mean by noisy. Singer National Day in the UK would be the ideal venue to ascertain if it's too noisey.
A quick check would be to remove the gearbox cover and check the teeth on the first gear input shaft and the matching gear on the layshaft for condition (chipped teeth and /or excessive wear.

[jeans_old_man]

There are two issues: straight-cut teeth on a gear that is a sliding fit on the output shaft and also the idler gear for reverse which is engaged when 1st is selected and rattles because it is unloaded. The noise is normal if it only attracts attention for 10 yards.

[Dentman]

I have joined both UK Singer Clubs and I have made contact amd I am waiting for a reply.
I am aware of what straight cut gears sound like. This is a secondary sound, i will take the top off the box and check the reverse gear idler as suggested. Thanks