How to re-fit the auto shifter mechanism without the shift rod disconnecting?

[tempur]

Dear Pagoda fans,
I trust someone can help me out with an annoying little problem with my '66 230SL: I had to replace the plastic bushing that is holding the automatic gear selector connected to the shift rod after the two parts decided to get separated.  It is my understanding that this can be done from within the vehicle but, for the life of me, I cannot get the selector plate back into the opening without having to insert it in an angle that caused the shift rod to disconnect again.  The mechanism below the plate is too wide to fit through the opening when the metal plate holding the selector ensemble is at a straight angle (i.e., aligned with the transmission tunnel).  What am I missing?  The level below the plate is angled toward the driver's side while the shift rod is also angled slightly towards the driver's side of the car.  Otherwise, I don't see much flexibility in the mechanism that would allow me to re-attach the shifter mechanism to the tunnel in a way that would keep the shift rod attached.
Thanks for your advice,
Tempur   

[merrill]

hello
I have changed my 66 230 auto bushing several times by removing the entire mechanism into the car and have never had an issue re installing.  you just need to make sure to feed the rod toward the front of the car in such a way that is does not get caught up in any wires etc.

can you share a photo of your issue?

[ja17]

The mechanism is more complex than it looks to re-assemble. Mark everything closely and take photos. It is easy to get confused.

[tempur]

Hi Merrill, here are two pictures: the first one shows the connection whereas the second one shows how the gear selector mechanism is too large to be inserted straight into the transmission tunnel.  I have to insert the mechanism at an angle or diagonally which inevitably causes the selector arm to disconnect from the shift rod.
I hope the pictures help to identify the issue.
Tempur

[tempur]

Well, I'm managed to sort the issue...for now.  Since there was no way to insert the shifter mechanism without tilting it is such a way that would have the shift rod disconnect, I was able to use an opening under the transmission tunnel, which can be accessed from below the vehicle, to connect the two rods with the help of a pair of pliers.
At least I can now drive the car and my first visit will be the workshop to make sure the connection will last.

[merrill]

Hello
I since my transmission is out of my car I looked at my  shift mechanism.
ours are very different.   i have attached a photo for reference.