Different Shifter Problem (3spd column)

[BigOrangeUgly]

I have looked through a lot of the three speed column shifter threads here, and as Murphy's law would have it, my problem seems to be different than the stuck linkage variety mentioned in those posts.

My problem is that when you don't stay right inside the H- pattern while shifting the arm goes into lala land and you are stuck in first gear. You just need to fiddle with it and get it back into it's normal position and you'll be fine again until you deviate from the H.

I haven't taken anything apart yet or tried to adjust it because I don't want to blindly fix things that may not be broken.

Anybody know if this sounds like a bushing issue or adjustment, other?

Thanks in advance for any direction you may be able to provide

Big Orange Ugly

[EdB]

Big Orange,

It is probably due to wear.

I rebuilt mine last year and it is not
a massive project.

I do not understand what you mean
when it goes into "La La" land:

Does the shift lever become free and
move all around or does it lock up and
have to be forced back?

EdB

[BigOrangeUgly]

Sorry about the vagary of la la land. What you said is more descriptive, It frees up and travels all around, but does not come out of first gear.

Thanks - Ed

[EdB]

Ed,

I am having trouble with my server.

I tried twice to answer.

From what you say, I think you have
a problem in the upper mechanism.

I have a spare on a parts truck. I
am going to look at it in the morning
and try to duplicate the problem.

I will reply back then.

EdB

[EdB]

Ed,

We discussed this and looked at some
pieces today.

Unless you broke the upper lever end
by hard shifting, the problem is
probably in the lower end of the
shift tube.

The tab that engages the levers can
be worn and not holding into the
groove. There is also a spring that
holds tension on the levers that
can be broken.

There is an adjustment. a sleeve
goes around the lower shaft. There is
a screw or small bolt that holds it
in place. It can be loosened and the
sleeve turned back. This can remove
some of the play.

You might have to replace some
parts. If you have to do this, the
column will have to come out.

The tab has to line up with the notches in the levers.

There are some grommets that fit
where the rods attach to the transmission levers. These can make
a big difference.


I purchased the levers, spacer,
and springs from the Chevy dealer.
I ordered the shift tube from LMC.

If you lay it all out as it comes apart,
you will see the wear areas and how
it is replaced.

I hope this helps.

EdB

[dubie]

Great topic!! My 3 speed does the same thing from time to time. Thanks for the great info

[BigOrangeUgly]

Thanks for the great info EdB. I'll try the stuff you mentioned when it warms up here and I'll post the results of my tinkering.

BOU