Short Shift kit - 4 speed manual

[BHap]

Ok - kidding - sort of....  I can't get over the difference between the shifter play in the 70 280SL vs my 85 BMW M635....  The 280SL is like shifting in a cardboard box - you've got to go to each corner to get the next gear....  is this a normal amount of side play to have?  Even when in gear, the shifter will move 6-8" side to side... once I get used to it - it's fine -- but the first couple of drives of the year always make me wonder if there is an adjustment or if that's just the way it is....  1970 280SL, 4 speed, 53,000 miles....  thanks for any advice....

Bob

[jeffc280sl]

Bob,

The shifter has a set of plastic bushings that wear out over time.  The bushings can be replaced easily enough through the base of the shifter.  There are two other bushings located on the ends of support rods located further up on the transmission.  They are accessed through a hatch in the center of the transmission tunnel.  Unfortunately the carpet needs to be pealed back in order to gain access.  You run the good chance of putting a run in the carpet when you try and remove it.  My front bushings were in good shape so I would focus on the bushings at the base of the shifter first.  While replacing these bushings you can pull on the support rods to get an idea if the bushings are ok.  Do a search on this subject and you should find more info.

Jeff C.
1970 280SL 4-speed

[Douglas]

You may read this same complaint from time to time in the vintage car magazines, but don't believe it -- it's the bushings. If the sychros are good, the ZF box has a nice clean positive feel.

Also, make sure not to re-install the lever backwards. Common mistake.

Douglas Kim
New York, NY
280 SL #016220

[RickInTex]

I have to agree that it sounds like you could use new bushings on the shifter lever.  I did mine last week, and it made a world of difference.  It feels much tighter.  Doug's right on making sure the lever is pointed forward.  It's not a complicated job, but cramped for fingers, and if you also put new bushings where the lever meets the main rod that goes up to the tranny, it's a tight fit to get the bolt back in there.  I.e., not something you'll want to have to take apart to redo.


Rick
Dallas TX
1967 250SL, 4-speed