More shift adjustment questions, I'm having sensory overload Options

[mdwman]

I've read posts on the topic, the PP tech article, and the Haynes procedure but I'm not sure I'm clear on adjusting my '73 side shift linkage.

To rotate the shift rod left or right it has to be out (disengaged) of the coupler at the shift lever, is that correct? Also, in the access hole between the seats please help me identify whats what. The shift rod is the thick bar against the drivers side. Then there are 2 thin metal tubes in the middle going through the fire wall, what are these. There is also a curved metal tube with nuts on it's middle section. Is this tube part of the shift linkage and are the nuts turned for adjustment?

I am able to access all gears but have a grind downshifting 3 to 2. I presume I am "nicking" reverse? The lockout plate looks good and the springs are Weltmeister replacements (they did not appear to be any more stout than the originals). What is the best adjustment procedure to remedy this?

Thanks for any help.

Mark

[mdwman]

How is the tranny shifted from under the car?

[KaptKaos]

How is the tranny shifted from under the car?

Do you understand how the linkage works from the shifter to the transmission? If not, back the car up on some ramps, get under there and take a look. It will help you a lot to understand how your moving the shifter affects the linkage.

At the firewall, down at the bottom in the middle, there is a hole where a fairly sturdy rod comes out. It is connected to a coupler and another rod. This second rod, continues backwards under the engine and through a hole in the engine mount bar, to the side of the transmission.

Race914 posted a picture of the console. Remove that big plastic cover, and let it hang there. You should see the head of the shift rod there. This is what moves when you wiggle the gear shift in the cabin. Per the diagram, it has 7 possible positions; 1-5, R and N. In the car, when the shift lever is moved forward, the shift head moves backwards. A move backwards (1st, 3rd, 5th) moves the shift head forwards by pulling on the rod. Moving the shifter in the cabin to the left or right rotates the rod and cause the change in height at the shift head.

Here is a Diagram on PP for reference: Linkage

Dr. Roger's procedure works well, but you might need to tune it a little and knowing how the changes in the cabin at the shifter affect the position on the trans well help you get it tuned.

Lastly, while you are down there, and tweaking the shifter, buy the bushings and replace them. If you are having shifting issues, new bushings are a must.

Good luck and report back!!