I am about to run a 3 hr enduro at CMP and my new race car has a lot of side to side play in the shift linkage. This makes finding 5th gear a sometimes thing. Can anyone tell me the usual cause of side to side play? Fore and aft play is fine. The shift linkage is stock. I may have time to swap the short shift linkage from my wrecked race car but am running out of time.

 

There is a spring washer that keeps the handle part of the linkage tight against the retaining pin under the shift boot. I'd check to make sure that hasn't lost it's ability to keep those two tight.

 

And often the pin becomes worn and requires replacement of the entire shift lever.

 

Yes, check the pin on the shift lever, it is likely worn. Unfortunately it often wears the female portion of the shift rod and then simply replacing the shift lever still doesn't do the job. There is a diy on RL somewhere which describes a method of adding a 924 bushing to correct.

 

Yes - pin on the shift lever. A new shift lever is $35 and takes less than an hour to change.

 

Thanks guys, I really appreciate the help. I just pulled the short shifter from my wrecked car and think I'll have time to install it before the race.

 

Tim, I found crew for the enduro, which I'd be happy to share if you change your mind.

 

Wish I could but it's not in the cards Thanks!

 

The "short shifter" you are referring to is the linkage on the back that attaches to the transmission correct? That is different than the pin and shift mechanism under your shift boot we are referring to.

I've not seen a shift linkage in the rear wear out but the pin up front a half dozen times.

 

There's also two bolts in the back that can be problematic. #19 in this pic which is safety wired, and # 28 which has a tapered point on it. If it backs out at all, especially when the point is worn you can have issues.

http://dcauto.gotdns.com/illustration/index/858326971

Cheers
Randy

 

The shifter I pulled replaces the shift lever and the mechanism on the transmission. I just installed the shift lever and it feels better than before. I will try to replace the parts back at the tranny before the race.