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Manual Shift Issue

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Old May 5, 2012 | 09:47 AM
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Default Manual Shift Issue

Hello,
I have a 1979 Coupe that I sometimes have trouble getting into first gear while the car is running and not moving but when the engine is off it shifts fine. ???

I have attempted to adjust it but it doesn't seemed to have helped.

Any ideas?

TIA

Paul
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Old May 5, 2012 | 10:30 AM
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Worn linkage? I think I'd take a hard look at all of it and then do the factory adjustment.

Corvette Four Speed Shifter Linkage Adjustment Instructions 63-81
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Old May 5, 2012 | 11:58 AM
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Try swapping out your tranny oil. to a top grade oil
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Old May 5, 2012 | 04:19 PM
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What's probably worn is the synchro in the trans. The inside diameter of the bronze synchro is cone shaped and as the shifter is pushed into gear, they wedge into the mating cone of the gear, slowing the gear to allow slider to align and make a smooth shift. They are a wear part and you are probably in need of an overhaul.
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Old May 5, 2012 | 04:41 PM
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Originally Posted by Willcox Corvette
Worn linkage? I think I'd take a hard look at all of it and then do the factory adjustment.

Corvette Four Speed Shifter Linkage Adjustment Instructions 63-81
Has anybody been able to get that alignment gauge in while the body is on the frame?
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Old May 5, 2012 | 04:58 PM
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Originally Posted by BBCorv70
Has anybody been able to get that alignment gauge in while the body is on the frame?
Yes but its tough. I made my own with a 90 degree handle to help.
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Old May 5, 2012 | 05:23 PM
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Originally Posted by BBCorv70
Has anybody been able to get that alignment gauge in while the body is on the frame?
i made one also that was short..
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Old May 5, 2012 | 08:23 PM
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I am having the same shifting problems and I only have 6,300 original miles so I doubt mine is wear and in need of a rebuild. Where did you get the tool or how do I make one?
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Old May 5, 2012 | 08:56 PM
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Originally Posted by ATIS
I am having the same shifting problems and I only have 6,300 original miles so I doubt mine is wear and in need of a rebuild. Where did you get the tool or how do I make one?
i used a drill bit.. i broke it on half and put a rubber elbow on it.... you can fit in right into the alignment hole in the shifter...
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Old May 5, 2012 | 10:36 PM
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Thanks!
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Old May 5, 2012 | 10:40 PM
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Sounds like the clutch is not fully disengaging. Does it help if you go from another forward gear into first ?
Have you done the 9 second spin down test ?
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Old May 5, 2012 | 10:42 PM
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Drill bit works for Hurst shifters but not for Muncies
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Old May 6, 2012 | 10:31 AM
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First, second and reverse seem to be the issue gears.
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