Yes, major surgery is on the menu. But until I save up, what can I do to minimise further wear, ie. make it quieter and last as long as possible. Most of my driving is 5 minute trips to town.

The tranny creaks at rpm rate in first and second gear during acceleration.

Heavier oil? An additive like "Nulon"? Filling port seems hard to get at when pouring. Is there some trick like using a tube?

Would using second gear as a brake when decelerating (downshifting) aggravate the problem?

Thanks for any suggestions.

Peter