Pagoda SL Group
W113 Pagoda SL Group => Drive train, fuel, suspension, steering & brakes => Topic started by: Michael D..... on January 17, 2010, 02:04:22
-
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?
-
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 .
-
Here's a good section to review...
http://www.sl113.org/wiki/TransmissionClutch/Shifter
Bob
-
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.
-
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.
-
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
-
If I remember correctly it helps to remove the tranny access tunnel on the passenger side
-
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.
-
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
-
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. ;D ;D Instead of hitting my knees and my passengers knees every time I changed gears, I am shifting inside a very tight circle.