New Shift Linkage Bushings...WOW!
 

Honestly, it is like having a new car!

The two bushings on the long link that runs from the shifter to the side of the trans were completely gone on my car. The shifter rattled, it was sloppy as all get out, and generally made the car seem old and loose.

The shifter now feels like new...very tight and precise.

The best part is now the car seems so quiet and solid. I had no idea how much noise was coming from that linkage. If I had not done the work myself, I would have sworn work had been done to the suspension. It seems that much tighter. I realize it is just a rattle reduction, but it is amazing what a difference it has made to the perception you have while driving/riding in the car.


Tim

Is there a DIY how-to on this repair?

This pretty much says it all:
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=112582

He talks about replacing all of the bushings. I only replaced the 2 on the rod. You can easily find this rod by looking directly under the shift lever.

Danny

And you do need to get a little creative when pressing the bushing on the end of the shift lever. It is tucked up in the driveshaft tunnel and access is poor...and the bushing is a very tight fit.

I used a socket on the side of the lever opposite the side the bushing was on, with a washer between the bushing and a nut. Bolt through the whole works and tighten it up until the bushing is squeezed on.

Once I had the bushing in the lever, I could no longer get the bolt out...it was too long and was hitting the tunnel (I should have cut it to the min length needed prior to assembly, or maybe put it in from the other side :idea2: ). I had to sneak a dremel cutting wheel up in there! You'll see what I'm talking about once you get in there.

Tim