VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - GENERAL Mechanical - Engine, Trans, etc Shift linkage

1941 Master Deluxe, 216, 3 speed.

I have not changed any of the linkage for the shifter. I can get it into and out of gear. I have driven manuals for some time but always assumed it way me with the shifting not being 100% smooth between gears. Occasionally I may find it difficult to shift between 1st and 2nd, rarely between 2nd and 3rd. What in the linkage should I look at for wear? How much play is OK? The linkage has never been adjusted by me and since I could get it into gear and to shift I just thought it was the cars personality.

I saw these on EBay and was wondering if these were a good idea? Shift Adjusters

If this is just the way it should be then I am fine with that. If it should be better than I will try and make it so.

Should have also posted this. The circled are does not have a bushing or anything in it. There is allot of play. It is just the cotter pin holding the rod in. Not sure if the hole just enlarged itself over the years, if the bushing fell out or should it be this way.

Tim, There should be a bushing keeping that swivel tight. Many times I’m able to find a replacement in the “Help” bubble packs at the chain auto parts stores. The package usually has an assortment but one might fit. If that doesn’t correct the problem, the linkage on your vacuum shift canister might need adjusting if you still have one. Mike

Interesting concept with the "shift adjusters". The spring forces the tapered bushing into the hole in the arm.

The 2 possible shortcomings in the design are if the hole in the flat bar is worn out-of-round or if there is a force on the rod that tries to compress the spring while shifting.

For what it's worth, I have them on my '48.

Thanks for the pictures of your car. I defiantly need to do something about this then. I ordered the set from eBay and will give that a try. Does not look like a difficult thing to change. If they do not work I can always try and find a bushing.

I have found that having an old car is a constant project that is never done. I think that is a good thing. Keeps me learning new things. Having two from different eras is just a form of higher education.