Shifter Problem

[Buckskin7T7V]

Her we go, I have a 77 with a 1980 4 speed transmission. Everything has been fine until now. When I shift into reverse, the shifter goes in but the car will not move. If I creep forward a little and try again, it will go into reverse most of the time. At times when I make the first shift into reverse, it is like a heavy locking feeling in the transmission. I do not know if it is the linkage adjustment or the transmission problem. All of the other shifts are fine, only going into reverse is effected.

 

[Yoda]

Buckskin,

I would wager it is the shifter out of adjustment. I assume you have the stock shifter with the lockout "T", you could try changing out the "T" and see if the helps, if not then it is the adjustment of the linkage which is not a whole lot of fun (very little room to get the adjustment flat in and out.

You may or may not be able to locate the "T" at your local Chevrolet Dealer, some still have a few and some will tell you it is disconntiuned :confused if all else fails Corvette Central or the other aftermarket vendors carry them, for about $12 ~ $19 plus shipping.

My guess would be the adjustment, or worn saddle bracket at the bottom of the shifter is getting worn allowing the common pin holding the three shifter linkages to get a bit sloppy

Bud

 

[lucky76]

Reverse lockout binding

Her we go, I have a 77 with a 1980 4 speed transmission. Everything has been fine until now. When I shift into reverse, the shifter goes in but the car will not move. If I creep forward a little and try again, it will go into reverse most of the time. At times when I make the first shift into reverse, it is like a heavy locking feeling in the transmission. I do not know if it is the linkage adjustment or the transmission problem. All of the other shifts are fine, only going into reverse is effected.

Sounds like the reverse linkage or reverse cable lockout to the steering column is binding. There is a cable from the reverse lever to the steering column. My 76 still has the stock shifter and is a little sloopy but all works. Check the nut that holds the reverse lever on the transmission for tightness. My 1 / 2 lever would not stay tight until I replaced the lock washer on it. Maybe it's loose and not turning the shaft.

 

[Buckskin7T7V]

lucky76; When I made the conversion to a 4-speed, I did not install this cable. I will check the locknut you have suggested.
Rare81; I know what you mean about not having much room to make the shifter adjustment. I am just hoping it is a shifter problem. I will also check the bracket you speak of for wear.
Everyone else, please feel free to add your comments. It is cold outside and the thought of lying down on a cold floor and getting under the old vette is not a pleasant thought.

 

[mvftw]

My reverse problem is that I have no power in reverse, the car bogs down. Someone suggested the linkage also, saying that it may not be fully in reverse. Rare81 is right, there is very little room. You have to get a special tool (or make one) http://www.zip-products.com/Corvette_Early/productr.asp?pf%5Fid=ST%2D406&gift=False&0=dept%2Easp%2Cdept%5Fid%3D1522%26menu%5Fid%3D%26Tree%3D%2CShifter%20%26%20Transmission&1=dept%2Easp%2Cdept%5Fid%3D1556%26menu%5Fid%3D%26Tree%3D0%2CShifter&2=dept%2Easp%2Cdept%5Fid%3D1569%26menu%5Fid%3D%26Tree%3D1%2C68%2D81%204%2DSpeed%20Trans%20Shifter&3=dept%2Easp%2Cdept%5Fid%3D1573%26menu%5Fid%3D%26Tree%3D2%2CShifter%20Linkage%20%26%20Trans%20Cables&Gift=False&HSLB=False&mscssid=7734F1D5922343B498C154DDCCE0E180 that will line up the linkage. May wait till I drop the tranny for a clutch...

 

[Buckskin7T7V]

I know I made one from a small putty knife. where did I put it, it has only been 24 years ago!