shifter adjustment problems: tagging reverse

[Rrrockhound]

Replaced all the shifter bushings in my 80 SC, reassembled the shifter, adjusted it per the standard procedure, and now it tags reverse on the 5-4 downshift. Rinse and repeat, same deal, over and over. I've done this before, so I know it's a trial-and-error deal, but I've never had this much trouble. I took the boot off so I could watch what's happening, and the shift lever doesn't ever really contact the reverse lock-out well enough for it to work. In fact, I can hit reverse without even moving the lever all the way to the right to where the tang on the lever clears the tab.

Do the tabs that control 5th and reverse ever need to be adjusted (by bending I mean)? I can get great action from 1-4 but it seems like the only way to get 5th and reverse working smoothly would be to tweak the tabs, but I don't want to try it if it's not a good idea.

Also, there's a spacer plate between the shifter housing and the floor. Does this mean I have a short shifter?

[Fsquad]

Just a guess but did you check the coupler behind the seats. I am not much of a mechanic and it took me quite a few attempts to get the same problem resolved after bushing replacement.

[ivangene]

Hello!!!
Ed

[ivangene]

ok...
the spacer is most likely a Welty SSK (is it white plastic?)

and the nicking of R when coming out of 5th is a fore/aft adjustment...you need more fine tuning of the coupler...

and you can search coupler whisperer for a cheap solution to your coupler woes

[kodioneill]

Put the trans in reverse then make the necessary adjustments so the lock out engages. It's a much easier method of adjustment than the standard described by all the manuals.
Like the others said, make sure all the components are in good shape before the adjustments are made. You may have to tweak the fore aft with this method.