shift linkage
 

I have a 1983 944 5-speed that has a lot of side to side play at the gear shift. It has this play even when the shifter is in gear. Thanks.

Your shift lever is worn. Easy fix. Last time I bought a new shift lever from the dealer it was less than twenty dollars.

You'll think you got a tranny rebuild when it's tight!

If you replace the shifter and it's tight for a couple weeks, then loosens up again, you may have another problem.

I had the problem that the end on the shift rod going back to the tranny was warn out too. For that you have two options: 1. pay to have the rod replaced (~$800 because you have to drop the tranny) or 2. FRWilk's fix ( http://frwilk.com/early944/ and click on the "shifter repair link on the left side)

Thanks for the help about the shift linkage.