Auto Column Question

[drman929]

On my '72 GMC, The shifter will move at all times, but it doesn't necessarily move smooth. It clanks and bangs and doesn't sound like it should move...and this is with the engine and key off. There is also alot of play in the shifter. Is there supposed to be a lock on the shifter? I should add that it is very sloppy...it will go down into whatever gear you want it to fine, but when you bring the shifter back up, you have to go up one slot above your desired gear for it to kick in. Example--I'm in 1st gear, and want to be in 2nd. I have to move it to D then it will go into 2nd and the shifter will fall back down to 2nd.

I'm just wondering what's happening? TIA