Hey guys! Ever wondered about that little thing called the upper gearbox mount in your Peugeot 208? Or maybe you're dealing with some weird vibrations and clunking noises? Well, you're in the right place! Today, we're diving deep into the world of the Peugeot 208's upper gearbox mount, specifically the coxim superior cambio. We'll cover everything from what it is, why it's important, how to know when it's failing, and of course, how to replace it. Let's get started!

What is the Upper Gearbox Mount?

So, what exactly is this upper gearbox mount, or coxim superior cambio as our Portuguese-speaking friends call it? Simply put, it’s a crucial component that helps secure your car’s gearbox (or transmission) to the chassis. Think of it as a cushion or a buffer. Its primary job is to absorb vibrations and reduce the amount of noise transmitted into the cabin of your Peugeot 208. Without it, you'd feel every little shudder and hear every gear change, which, trust me, isn’t a pleasant experience.

This mount is typically made of rubber or a combination of rubber and metal. The rubber part helps dampen the vibrations, while the metal provides the necessary strength to hold the gearbox in place. Over time, however, the rubber can degrade due to exposure to heat, oil, and general wear and tear. This degradation leads to the mount losing its ability to absorb vibrations effectively, which then causes a whole host of problems.

Now, why is the upper gearbox mount so important? Well, consider this: the gearbox is a heavy and complex piece of machinery with lots of moving parts. As the engine runs and you shift gears, the gearbox moves and vibrates. The mount ensures that these movements are controlled and don't cause undue stress on other components. A worn or broken mount can lead to increased wear on the gearbox itself, as well as on related parts like the driveshafts and engine mounts. It also affects the overall driving experience, making it less comfortable and potentially even unsafe.

In essence, the upper gearbox mount is a small but mighty component that plays a significant role in the smooth and quiet operation of your Peugeot 208. Keeping it in good condition is crucial for the longevity of your vehicle and your driving comfort.

Signs of a Failing Upper Gearbox Mount

Okay, so how do you know if your upper gearbox mount is on its way out? Spotting the symptoms early can save you from more significant (and expensive) problems down the road. Here are some tell-tale signs that your coxim superior cambio might need replacing:

1. Excessive Vibrations: This is often the first and most noticeable symptom. If you feel unusual or excessive vibrations, especially when accelerating or decelerating, it could be a sign that the mount is no longer effectively absorbing the engine and gearbox movements. These vibrations might be felt through the steering wheel, seats, or floor of the car.
2. Clunking Noises: Another common symptom is a clunking or thudding noise, particularly when shifting gears or going over bumps. This happens because the worn mount allows the gearbox to move more freely than it should, causing it to knock against other parts of the vehicle. The noises are usually more pronounced during sudden changes in acceleration or deceleration.
3. Rough Shifting: A failing gearbox mount can also affect the smoothness of your gear changes. You might notice that shifting gears becomes more difficult or jerky. This is because the misalignment caused by the worn mount can put extra strain on the gear linkage, making it harder to engage the gears smoothly. Ignoring this issue can eventually lead to damage to the gearbox itself.
4. Visual Inspection: Sometimes, the signs are visible. Take a look at the mount itself. If you see cracks, tears, or significant wear and tear on the rubber part of the mount, it’s a clear indication that it needs to be replaced. You might also notice that the mount looks compressed or deformed compared to a new one. To inspect the mount, you may need to use a flashlight and possibly remove some surrounding components for a better view.
5. Engine Movement: In more severe cases, you might notice excessive engine movement when you start or stop the engine. This is because the mount is no longer able to properly restrain the engine and gearbox. Have a friend start the car while you watch the engine bay. If the engine rocks back and forth excessively, it’s a sign of a failing mount.

If you experience one or more of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to get your Peugeot 208 checked out by a mechanic. They can properly diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate course of action. Don't ignore these signs, as a failing upper gearbox mount can lead to further damage and more costly repairs.

Tools and Materials Needed for Replacement

Alright, so you've confirmed that your coxim superior cambio needs replacing. If you're the DIY type, you might be thinking about tackling this job yourself. Here’s a list of the tools and materials you'll need to get the job done right:

• New Upper Gearbox Mount: This is the most crucial item. Make sure you get the correct part for your specific Peugeot 208 model and year. Check the part number to ensure compatibility. It’s always a good idea to buy from a reputable supplier to ensure you're getting a quality part.
• Socket Set: You'll need a variety of sockets to remove the bolts holding the old mount in place. A set that includes both metric and standard sizes is ideal. Make sure you have sockets that fit the specific bolts on your gearbox mount.
• Wrench Set: Like the socket set, a good wrench set is essential for loosening and tightening bolts. Combination wrenches (open-end and box-end) are particularly useful. Again, ensure they are the correct sizes for your vehicle.
• Torque Wrench: This is a must-have for tightening the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. Overtightening can damage the bolts or the mount, while undertightening can lead to the mount coming loose. Refer to your vehicle's repair manual for the correct torque specifications.
• Jack and Jack Stands: You'll need to safely lift and support your Peugeot 208 to access the gearbox mount. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use jack stands for safety.
• Wheel Chocks: Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent the car from rolling while you're working on it.
• Penetrating Oil: This can be helpful for loosening stubborn or rusty bolts. Apply it a few minutes before attempting to remove the bolts to allow it to soak in.
• Screwdrivers: A set of screwdrivers (both flathead and Phillips) might be needed to remove any covers or components that are in the way of the gearbox mount.
• Pry Bar: A small pry bar can be useful for gently persuading the old mount to come loose.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt, grease, and sharp edges with a pair of work gloves.
• Safety Glasses: Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.
• Shop Rags: Keep a stack of shop rags handy for wiping up spills and cleaning parts.
• Vehicle Repair Manual: This is an invaluable resource that provides detailed instructions, diagrams, and torque specifications for your specific vehicle. If you don't have a physical manual, you might be able to find a digital version online.

Having all these tools and materials on hand will make the replacement process much smoother and safer. Remember, safety first! If you're not comfortable working on your car, it's always best to take it to a qualified mechanic.

Step-by-Step Replacement Guide

Okay, you've got your tools, you've got your new upper gearbox mount (coxim superior cambio), and you're ready to get your hands dirty. Here’s a step-by-step guide to replacing the mount on your Peugeot 208. Remember, safety is paramount, so take your time and follow these instructions carefully.

1. Prepare the Vehicle:
   • Park your Peugeot 208 on a level surface.
   • Engage the parking brake.
   • Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels to prevent rolling.
   • Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels (don't remove them completely yet).
2. Lift and Support the Vehicle:
   • Use a jack to lift the front of the vehicle.
   • Place jack stands securely under the frame rails behind the front wheels.
   • Lower the vehicle onto the jack stands.
   • Ensure the vehicle is stable before proceeding.
   • Remove the front wheels to give you more access.
3. Locate the Upper Gearbox Mount:
   • The upper gearbox mount is typically located on top of the gearbox, near the engine.
   • You might need to remove some air intake components or other parts to get a clear view of the mount.
   • Refer to your vehicle's repair manual for the exact location if you're unsure.
4. Support the Gearbox:
   • Before removing the mount, you need to support the gearbox to prevent it from shifting or falling.
   • Use a transmission jack or a block of wood and a jack to gently support the gearbox from underneath.
   • Make sure the support is stable and secure.
5. Remove the Old Mount:
   • Use your socket and wrench set to remove the bolts holding the upper gearbox mount in place.
   • Some bolts might be tight, so use penetrating oil if necessary.
   • Once all the bolts are removed, carefully lift out the old mount.
   • Note the orientation of the mount before removing it, as the new one will need to be installed in the same way.
6. Inspect the Surrounding Area:
   • Before installing the new mount, inspect the area where the old mount was located.
   • Clean off any dirt, grease, or debris.
   • Check the condition of the surrounding components, such as the gearbox and engine, for any signs of damage.
7. Install the New Mount:
   • Position the new upper gearbox mount in the same orientation as the old one.
   • Align the bolt holes and insert the bolts.
   • Tighten the bolts by hand initially to ensure they are properly threaded.
   • Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
   • Refer to your vehicle's repair manual for the correct torque specifications.
8. Remove the Gearbox Support:
   • Once the new mount is securely in place, carefully remove the transmission jack or block of wood.
9. Reinstall Components:
   • Reinstall any air intake components or other parts that you removed to access the mount.
10. Reinstall the Wheels and Lower the Vehicle:
    • Reinstall the front wheels and tighten the lug nuts by hand.
    • Use a jack to lift the vehicle off the jack stands.
    • Remove the jack stands.
    • Lower the vehicle to the ground.
    • Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
11. Test Drive:
    • Take your Peugeot 208 for a test drive to ensure the new upper gearbox mount is functioning correctly.
    • Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations.
    • Check the smoothness of gear changes.

If everything seems to be working fine, congratulations! You've successfully replaced the coxim superior cambio on your Peugeot 208. If you encounter any problems, consult a qualified mechanic.

Final Thoughts

Replacing the upper gearbox mount on your Peugeot 208, or the coxim superior cambio, is a manageable task for the DIY enthusiast. By understanding the function of the mount, recognizing the signs of failure, and following a step-by-step replacement guide, you can save money and ensure your vehicle runs smoothly. Remember, safety is always the top priority, so take your time and don't hesitate to seek professional help if needed. Happy wrenching, guys! And may your Peugeot 208 have many more miles of smooth, quiet driving ahead!