I have a 1994 Rover 214 cabriolet, petrol, 5 speed manual, 44.000 miles. It is a very good car but during the last 6 months the clutch occasionally makes a small scream like noise when engaging 1st gear. When the clutch pedal is pushed down the only noise is the engine however when the clutch pedal is not pushed down and the car is in neutral there is a rattling sound. Other than that the clutch works 100% ok, no slipping and it is smooth in operation.
The gears - in 1st and 2nd gear there is a dull whining like noise like a dragging sound. The noise is getting slowly louder each month. I recall hearing this noise on old MG's and Austin cars. This noise is not present in 3rd or 4th or 5th. All the gears work 100% ok.
Do I need a new gearbox and clutch?
Any advice welcome
Thanks Simon
(Also posted on MG Rover Forum)

I'm afraid it sounds like the gearbox input shaft bearings are failing. This is the usual failure for the R65 gearbox. The sound goes away when you press the clutch in as you are disconnecting the gearbox from the engine so it is not turning.

You can check the oil level in the gearbox, if the oil looks glittery then chances are the bearing is breaking up causing the metal shards in the oil.

Time to think about a new gearbox I think.

However the good news is it is unlikely to be a clutch problem!

Hi ETV,
Many thanks for this. I thought the clutch noise was the thrust bearing on the clutch but I suspected it was the gearbox. The "dragging" sound I heard before in other Rovers and Austin cars.
I have bought a new Rover R65 gearbox for 220 and clutch for 50 now Im looking for a good garage / mechanic in / near Reading to fit the parts. If you / anybody has any ideas on this I'd welcome them. Many thanks for your input. Simon