She runs, (finally) but I could use some shift linkage help please......

[jim72911t]

Hi,
First, I'm not even going to tell you how friggin' exited I am right now! Long story short: The motor came out of my car Thanksgiving weekend, 2002. She moved for the first time tonight. Yes, I know, that's almost three years. Let's just say I've been busy. Bought a house, started a business, etc. No more excuses.

The car is a 72T built to high comp E specs, with Zeniths and a four speed trans. The MFI awaits in a box, ready to be rebuilt. The motor finally runs almost as it should, thanks to some new ignition components and rebuilt carbs.

Did I mention I was excited?

Anyway, the trans really grinds going into gear. The clutch is new, as are the shift bushings, pedal cluster bushings, etc. Motor mounts seem fine. I think my problem lies with the shift linkage adjustment. I've played with it for a while now using the adjustment method outlined in Wayne's 101 Projects, but, no matter how I set it, I can't get the car to go into gear cleanly. It's drivable, but barely.

Anybody have any suggestions?

I know I'm supposed to post pics; I'll try to snap some tomorrow. (Engine compartment only ) The body is the next project.

TIA,
Jim

[Early_S_Man]

Jim,

Congrats on the engine!

My first suggestion is to recheck the clutch freeplay adjustment, and make SURE it is in the 3/4" - 1" range. Many shifting problems are much worse when there isn't enough clutch freeplay!

In neutral ... the shift lever should be absolutely perpendicular to the tunnel floor. That should give you a starting point for the coupler rough adjustment.