This is part update / more questions. 915 shifter and transmission connected to Chevy 330ci. Could not get in reverse so recommendations were to look at bushings and coupler.

So far, it looks like the two bushings on the shifter assembly are shot. Please see attached pictures and please confirm they are toast. What is the guk build up - is it the plastic breaking apart?

I was going to cleaning them out and replace bushings .... what to spray on them .... WD-40?

The firewall bushing looks ok but I'm going to go ahead and replace that as well. What's the trick to get the firewall bushing out without breaking something and from the passenger compartment side or engine side.

Thanks in advance!

-Colin

The 'gunk' is probably some sort of lubricant, and the bushing is definitely toast. The firewall bushing replaces from the engine side, the guide bushing under the shifter is easy once the shift tower is off, and placing them in some boiling water before trying to install it will lessen your frustration ( and cursing) when installing them. Might as well replace all the bushings at the same time as they're inexpensive and it'll shift much nicer.

each bushing is under $10. New is good.