Problem shifting, keeps binding up

[Isaiah92260]

I just replaced the upper bearing on my steering shaft. But once I got the steering wheel back on, my 3 on the tree binds up when I try to shift it into reverse and 1st. I have to lift the hood and go push back the 1st and 2nd lever back down...It's almost like it worked better when I had the worn out bearing on it. I just got the 63 shop manual but it doesn't really explain much about this, unless I'm not looking right. If anyone has more experience with the 3 speed please share some light, thank you !