Transmission shift problem

[msteele]

I seem to be having a strange issue with 1st gear on my 1984 911 targa.
It wont go into 1st gear when stopped.
If I lean on 1st gear as I roll to a stop, it will go in nice and easy every time.
If I don't do this, half the time it will not go in or will take some force then pop in.
When I do put it in gear when rolling to a stop if I slide it back out of gear and don't touch it, it will go back. If I pull it out of gear and move the shifter from side to side it won't go back.

At first I thought it was the short shift kit so I installed the factory shifter back in and replaced the bushings. It now has a longer throw and does the same thing.
I then thought I might play with adjusting the coupler which was rebuilt recently. It still behaves the same.

Could there be something loose in the transmission that could cause this. It does not grind going into gear so I do not think it is the syncros.

Thanks,
Mark

[Gemballa2006]

I tend to have the same problem with my 86. I have been told it is probably the synchro, even if it isn't grinding. To avoid the panic of not being able to get into first when the light changes, simply go from neutral to 2nd, about half way into second then slide into first. I do this and it goes in smooth every time.

[kodioneill]

Possible clutch adjustment may be in order.

[msteele]

I tried going into 2nd then 1st but that does not work for me.

The clutch has been adjusted and it is perfect.
I replaced the clutch cable and helper spring. Rebuilt the pedal cluster with bronze bushings.

[2Utes]

My ease of shifting into 1st was improved by adjusting the shift linkages as follows from a Pelican article.

Porsche 911 Shift Linkage - Adjustment

1. Remove the cover plate on the tunnel, behind the front seats.
2. Place gearshift in neutral.
3. Loosen the shift rod clamp. Turn the shift rod (by grasping the
coupler) to the right, as seen in the direction of driving.
4. Move gearshift lever to the left until it touches the stop, and
move it fore-and-aft until the lower section is vertical when viewed from the side (the
fore-and-aft adjustment can be modified
to suit the driver, provided sufficient length of the shifter rod remains inside the clamp).
5. Lightly tighten the clamp.
6. Check if equally long travel is evident in gears 1-4, and that 5th
and reverse can be easily engaged. Correct as necessary.
7. Tighten the clamp securely.
8. Shift into 5th gear, and check the shift rod for rotational play.
A definite (slight) amount of play must be evident.

This is also a good time to inspect the shift coupler bushings. Be aware that some
fore-and-aft play in the coupler bushings is required.

Pelican link Pelican Parts - Error: Page Not Found

It is a real easy adjustment to make and test.

Good luck resolving your issue.

[James Brown]

As the Carrera's age, you will see the same "problems" as the SC's have, and some new ones. I (we) have learned that when shifting my 28 y.o. box takes some fenness. But, in the long run, have to replace those syncros sometime.