The transmission gears are of the constant-mesh type with balk ring synchronizers. Each gear (1st through 5th) is actually a mating pair of gears, and constant-mesh simply means the mating gears are always meshing. When shifting, synchronizers cause the moving parts to rotate at the same speed before engaging. This prevents damage to the gears, minimizes wear, and eases shifting. The 3rd, 4th, and 5th gear synchronizers are on the main shaft; the 1st and 2nd gear synchronizers are on the pinion shaft. Gear selection is made through the gear-shift lever in the passenger compartment, which is linked to the transmission by the gearshift linkage.