need to replace shifter bushings on an 83 240d with maunal transmission. the bushings connected to the lever arms attached to the transmission form the basis if my question. can i remove these arms and replace the bushings at my work bench? i will not end up having something fall loose inside the case will i? thank you.

I always did the bushings one rod at a time from under the car to avoid any confusion on where the rods go when re-installing. There should be no surprises while doing this job. The haynes manual has a good illustration/procedure. Good luck.

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2001 Dodge Ram 2500 Cummins Turbo Diesel - 4x4, auto, 3.54 gears, long bed
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'92 300D 2.5 Turbodiesel - sold
'83 300D Turbodiesel - 4 speed manual/2.88 diff - sold
'87 300D Turbodiesel - sold
'82 300D Turbodiesel - sold

I have seen a definite decrease in the Spirit of Adventure lately...

The correct and exciting way to do this is to take all of them off and put them into a box... and add a few from other cars also... then close the lid and turn the box over a couple of times... then put them back on the car....

This will give you indications as to your general mechanical abilities, and your stress points... it is best to work on this Tuesdays immediately before the Oprah Winfrey show... because if you are really upset you can watch Dr. Phil and I am sure that will help....