Transmission shifting problems

[bmw4ricky]

I have a 76 914 which previously had a perfect transmission. We bought the car a few months ago so I'm not sure of the history. Although just yeserday the car refuses to go into second and third gear. instead it acts like its in fith or fourth, but this doesn't make sense because it is in the middle, and you can change over to the real 4th and 5th. furthermore there is a 2nd and third incredably close to reverse and 1st which are hard to find and sometimes knock out when found. ANY HELP? Do I need a rebuild? How could this all of the sudden happen it was flawless two days ago, thankyou for any help

[BenI]

The problem probably lies in the shift linkage, and is very easy to check/fix. There are two set screws at pivot points along the linkage that sometimes come a little loose and can cause shift problems such as missing gears, grinding gears upon shifting, and popping out of gear. Jack up the driver's side rear of car. One of the set screws is on the linkage right by the firewall behind a rubber water guard. The other is behind the plastic water guard where the linkage meets the transmission. I have found in the past that loosening and retightening these screws 'tunes up' my shifting problems. I think the set screws take a 6mm allen wrench. While you're under, you might check the clutch cable for wear and correct adjustment. Good luck!

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarticles/914_shift_improve/914_shift_improve.htm

[maf 914]

Ben, You might try a search for shift linkage. Linkage problems have been discussed several times with many suggestions.

Mike

[red-beard]

If 4th/5th and R/1st are still in the same place, and 2nd/3rd seems to have moved, it sounds like a shift fork problem not a linkage problem, especially in a late model tranny.

I'd check the shift rod for play, since you can do that by reaching under the car, but I'm guessing you need to open it up.

James

[bmw4ricky]

Well its fixed, and good as new, I'm not actually sure what was wrong, I asked a friend to use his one of his lifts..... Well I sat in the car and moved it as told, while he tightened something, i may be ignorant but I can still drive