Shift handle- hard to move side to side
 

I just bought an '87 944S today for just $2700. It's in very good condition in and out- dash does not have a single crack anywere. Anyway- I got it so cheap because the shifter is very hard to move from side to side. It rests in the center and you can put it in 3rd and 4th with no trouble. But when you put it in 1st or 2nd you really have to muscle it just to move the handle over to the left side. Once you get it there you can put it in 1st or 2nd no problem. Same with the 5th and reverse side. Is this something with the linkage or a bushing? Anyone have this before?

Nobody, huh?
Well, I took the shift lever apart and found that the pin that connects to the shift rod is warn. It's not an hourglass shape as the archives mention, but it is tapered so the end is much narrower and it seems it is binding on the shift rod when you move it back and forth. Hope a new one helps.

Hope that works, but that usually makes the shifter just really sloppy... There is another linkage at the transmission, might want to take a look at it there, that's where its probably binding...

weekend is kinda slow, Flormat. You should have adequate response by tomorrow

I guess I'm the only one with nothing to do on a holiday weekend. I am hoping it's not the linkage at the tranny, I can move the shift rod freely w/o it connected to the shift lever- if that means anything.

no...I think we are all trying to remember where that thread was..

have a read:

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=75980&highlight=shift+b ushing

OK, since you have the shifter disconnected from the linkage, try shifting the transmission with the link that runs back to the tranny. If you can shift without the shift lever connected, then you can solve the problem by going here: http://frwilk.com/early944/ . In the left hand frame, click on "Shifter Repair."

944S?

Replace the timing belts and the cross over chain and pressure pad for the cams -- NOW!!!

Other wise -- $$$$$ when it breaks.

NO! I don't care what the PO said about these recently being replaced.

Did like you said and tried shifting with just the shift rod. It shifted through all gears without any problems, so this leads me to believe it's the lever causing my problems. The ball cup bushing looks to be in good shape, but I figure I'll replace that while I'm in there.
Yes, I know all about the belt issues with these cars, it's my 3rd. It's on the list to do before I begin driving it. Think I might part with one of my P-cars now...anyone want an '81 928S euro? Thanks everyone- any other suggestion, let me know.

How much for the 928? Is it gun metal grey?

-S

No, not grey. It's burgundy. $5900. Body is very good and paint has a deep shine. Upholstery is very good- just one small tear on pass seat back, at the bottom. If you want pictures email me. Flormat2@yahoo.com