Shifting improvements

[Sonic dB]

I replaced the ball cup shift bushing and the shift rod bushing (a bugger to push into the bracket) on my last night.

The original bushings had some wear, so these are probably going to help.

The single most important thing that I did to improve the shifting, however... was the rotate the shift rod where it meets the front end of the coupler, to where the stick shift would rotate in the opposite position.

Upon experimentation, I found that the best setting for my car was to rotate the shift rod as far to the left (drivers side) as it could possible go before tightening down the bolt.

There are really noticable improvements in shifting after making this adjustment! Easier to find the gears...and now I dont have to shift into 2nd before going into first at a stop light. Much less grinding into first. Nice improvement.

[azasadny]

Sonic dB,

I haven't done that project yet, but i replaced the old gearbox fluid with Swepco 201 about 6 weeks ago and noticed a significant improvement in shifting. Less gear noise and vibrations, too. It was a 30min project that I did the same time as the oil change and I recommend it if you think it will help.

[Sonic dB]

I did the Swepco a few weeks ago, but didnt notice a difference. Aligning the shifter, as above made a HUGE difference and it is shifting almost as new now... Im very happy.

btw... Im from your area and used to cruise Biddle ave back in HS. Oh the memories...

[dbanazek]

Don't foget the bushings at the rear linkage. Weltmeister has ones theat have a round hole instead of the oval shaped factory bushing.

[JWest]

The Welts I just got last week have the oval hole. I don't think you can get the round hole anymore (I hope I'm wrong and you can tell me where to get them).

[dbanazek]

It has been a little while since I got any.