Particles in gearbox oil

[Ruby1970]

I have just drained the gearbox oil from my 1970 2-door and found that it contained a fair few small particles of what I assume is metal, about the cosistency of ground pepper. There was also a small shake proof washer sitting in the bottom of the drain plug along with some fine sludge.
I have owned the car for a few months and this is the first time that I have dropped the oil and I don't know when it was last done. The car drives very well and changes gear smoothly; the question is, should I be investigating further? The washer could have been there for a long time as it was sitting flush with the bottom of the drain plug and was well hidden by the sludge.
Any advice would be much appreciated.

Ruby

[MarkyB]

If it aint broke, don't fix it.
Refill with 20/50 engine oil and carry on.

[mike.perry]

Try changeing th oil in a Mini, the magnetic sump plug looks like a hedghog

[Ruby1970]

Thanks. Refilled and carrying on! I'll worry about it when I see more than a hedgehog's' worth on the drain plug. Now, where did that washer come from, I wonder......
Ruby

[philthehill]

I suspect that the shake proof washer is Pt No: GHF321 (1 of 3) and is item No 71 in the attached Moss parts list.
If your gear box is working alright leave well alone and deal with it when it needs attention.
When I stripped my Ford gearbox I found a lay shaft needle roller attached to the magnet in the bottom. It must have been there since assembled by Ford.
http://www.moss-europe.co.uk/Shop/ViewP ... exID=17075

[Ruby1970]

Thanks, Phil. All I need to do now is wait until item number 69 ( the bolt that goes with it) turns up at the next oil change!
Ruby

[philthehill]

If the bolt has not turned up yet it never will.
The bolt is tightened up securely into and against the selector shaft and locked by the lock nut (item No: 70) and the shake proof washer is just a belt and braces addition. No doubt added because the selectors (items No: 66, 67 & 68) are brass so are slightly softer.
If you have no gear selection problems all is well and you should have no concerns just enjoy the drive.

[Ruby1970]

That's a relief! Thank you, I will.
Ruby