Gear shifter troubles. HELP PLEASE!

[thestu]

hey guys in my mk1 underneath the car is the rod that comes from the front onf the car then connects to the shifting rod...

have any one got pictures of what it should look like under there?

I have it all hooked up and everything bar reverse works and i have to push the shifter down to get it into 1st and 2nd.

Stu

[Jmac]

Mate generally you need a special tool to line up the gearshift, but sound like you also need a ball and socket kit mate to rectify this issue. Ask your local dub parts or OEM supplier for a ball and socket repair kit.
Cheers

[cab93]

Sound like the linkages need adjusting. for a how too, check out this site.
www.cabby-info.com/
in "community" (bottom left of screen) click on "links & resources" in the middle column click "Bad habit Rabbit" then click "checking and adjusting the shifter" hopefully this will help.
Note a "Shift Kit" with all linkages and bushes from the USA will cost about $16.50 US. VW Australia quoted $50.00 for one linkage....
New linkages are meant to cure 99% of all gear shifter problems, from what I have been told. Which is why next week I have my cabby booked in to have new engine mounts, plus the new linkages and bushes installed.

Michael

[paulie71]

An old rule of thumb is to use a matchbox and to centre the linkage in the housing below the floor (front to back of the car) and the space between the selector shaft (gearstick coming through the floor) and the housing is the thickness of the matchbox (striker side). This is done in neutral. When in doubt refer to the old trusty Haynes Manual. Good luck

[thestu]

ok i will give it a shot thanks mate

[Campaign]

How did you get on?
I would expect it to be a straightforward fix to use the Haynes manual or matchbox method.

[aprr32]

In the old days it was the thick side of a cassette, but I guess matchboxes will be around forever.

[gldgti]

grab a helper, put the car on ramps and get under there with a 13mm socket.

once you ort it out in your head how it all works together, setting it is easy.