sloppy stick shifter

[Michael D.....]

I'm newer to the world of 113.  I'm methodically going through and restoring the vehicle.  In my pursuit to get the vehicle in the best mechanical condition I can, I noticed that my stick shift has a lot of lateral play once it is shifted into position (once in gear I can move the sick 3-4 inches back and forth).  It glides in and out of gears well but it is not a firm track that the stick moves in like modern car.  Is this normal and what should be expected of a 45 year old car.  If this is not the norm is there some way to adjust the play out?

[jeffc280sl]

The bottom of the shifter has plastic bushings which wear out and cause the shifter to feel loose.  Do a search on "shifter bushings". It is a common problem that the diy guy can fix .

[bpossel]

Here's a good section to review...

http://www.sl113.org/wiki/TransmissionClutch/Shifter

Bob

[SteveK]

My shifter was also a little sloppy and then one day about 4 months ago without warning one of the bushings popped out.  I was able to get it home, and after figuring out what happened ordered all of the bushings from the classic center.  Under $50 delivered and about 1 hour worth of work and it shifts like brand new.   I would do it as soon as possible if I was you.

[merrill]

I watched / helped Waqas change the stick shift bushings in his car.

It helps to have a second set of hands, I think it took us all of a half an hour.

The new bushings really firmed up the shifting.

[Jordan]

I guess there is no way of doing this without removing the carpetting from the centre console?  My bushings need replacing by the sounds of this thread and I was hoping I didn't have to tear this up.
Marcus

[merrill]

If I remember correctly it helps to remove the tranny access tunnel on the passenger side

[J. Huber]

Jordan, I believe the carpet around the gate is generally not glued for this very reason (and to get to the access panel Matt mentioned). Double check yours.

[Ulf]

It's one of those quick and cheap fixes that makes a LOT of difference, the carpet on the transmission tunnel is quite easy to remove - even if glued in place - and can be glued back on equally fast with contact glue - preferably in a spray can.

Ulf

[Jordan]

Just thought I would follow up on Michael's thread talking about his sloppy shifter (I don't think my thrust rods were even attached any more).  I had the same problem and changed all of the bushings and Ulf was certainly correct.  It made a huge difference.  It was quite easy, even for a novice and mechanically challenged individual such as myself.  I recommend this easy fix for anyone with this problem.  The shifter is now tighter than my 08 Subaru and what a pleasure it is to drive.   Instead of hitting my knees and my passengers knees every time I changed gears, I am shifting inside a very tight circle.