Thanks for the input!

jt20:
I am not really sure how to evaluate if it has a normal amount of play. I would call it "free play" probably. Since I haven't driven another 300D, I don't know what normal is. I would say it is pretty loose. It has always been this way. I assumed that was the way it was supposed to be that was why it has the zig-zag like pattern to the shifter guide (because with out it it would easily bump into another gear). It certainly is not near as stiff (or precise) as any newer car I have driven with a shifter on the floor.

bobodaclown:
Thanks for the DIY's those are very helpful. Both are newer cars than a W123. Are they going to be the same?

1benznc:
Good Luck! Let me know if you have any tips after.

Thanks again everybody!

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Gisele: 1985 300D (430K miles)