Shifting problem

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Oct 17, 2001 | 05:44 PM

pwhatley

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Shifting problem

I have a 1987 4000S and it won't shift into 5th gear. This occurred after I picked it up from having rear brake shoes put on. I had no problems before I took it to the shop. The shift lever will go in to the 5th position,but the trans is actually in third. The trans goes from 1 thru 4 just fine. Does anyone know what's causing this?

Thanks

Oct 17, 2001 | 08:01 PM

Lurk'n

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Non Quattro eh?

Oct 17, 2001 | 09:42 PM

Evol

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sounds like shifter bushings

Oct 19, 2001 | 03:05 AM

Dwight V.

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Re: Shifting problem

My web site has pictures of the two types of shift linkages. May want to have a look and see which you have.
Seems odd that 5th would be a problem but not reverse too?
If you have the 'early' style I illustrate (which may be common to 4cyl cars regardless) the bushings can disintegrate and fall out when they get old. They are available seperately. If you need them, let me know and I'll get you the part numbers. I forgot to post them on the site.

Oct 19, 2001 | 05:39 PM

80'sAudiguy

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My experience with this is...

If you are in need of shifter bushings for your '87 4ks, the dealer may not have the bushings, but will be quite willing to sell you shifter bracket (with bushings pre-installed) for $40 to $50 each (takes a left and a right side to make this work).

However, the exact same bushings are used in the VW Fox, and those bushings can be bought separately from the dealer. I think I spent $15 or $20 total for all the bushings last time, and the shifter then felt BRAND NEW!.

The most common failure, however, is the one bushing that fits over a ball on the left bracket onto which a rod connects to the tranny to provide the pivot point for the linkage. This "cup" bushing is maybe $4, and that is probably all you need to get all the gears engaging again.

Once you take a look under the car and find the shifter linkage, it should become apparent as to the procedure for r&r'ing the bushings.

Let me know if you need help,

-- Tom

Oct 21, 2001 | 08:43 AM

pwhatley

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Re: Shifting problem

This site is great!! I know someone out there would
have an answer. I'll let know if need any more help
after I get everyhing broken down. Thanks again.

Oct 21, 2001 | 08:51 AM

pwhatley

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Re: My experience with this is...

Thanks Tom! Sounds like a simple procedure. I take it that this repair is done from underneath the car?
I was thinking that I had to take the shift boot off
to access the bushings.

I'll let you know if I have any questions.