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Downshifting

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nevets

nevets

Jedi Knight
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When downshifting from 3rd to 2nd, is it normal to be able to move the gearshift lever into reverse territory? Sometimes if I am not careful, I will overshoot 2nd and momentarily touch reverse, causing a bit of gear grind. Should there be reverse lock-out when the car is in forward motion?
 
Steve - sounds like the detent spring has failed (or is missing).
 
The detent is likely stuck in the down position, shown here on a side-shift gearbox. Its is accessible on both side-shift and top shift by removing the cover.
You can remove all the parts for it, clean and re-assemble. There are some 3-4th shift forks that have a closed end at the top and may inhibit the removal of the detent on the top-shift. In that case, shooting parts cleaner in the parts while using channel locks to move the detent up and down may clean it out. Worst case the internal spring may be broken, which is available.

1692803817148.png
 
Thanks dezand, thanks NutmegCT,

Good to know that it may be possible to solve the issue with the transmission In-Situ. If the internal spring is broken or missing, is it possible to fix through the side cover opening? It hasn't been a big problem, I'm usually able to finesse the shifter to avoid touching reverse, but maybe something to address if/ when I need to remove the transmission tunnel at some future date?

PS - I appreciate the very clear picture
 
Just to clarify my issue...When I move the shift lever into reverse from a standstill, there is a noticeable 'detent', meaning there is a tactile sense that I am pushing past a spring loaded gate or notch. When downshifting from 3rd to 2nd while moving, if I am overly forceful in moving the shift lever, I sometimes push the lever past the 'detent' and touch reverse. I was wondering whether it should even be possible to do this? Maybe the detent spring is just worn?
 
There really isn’t a mechanism to prevent you from doing it. I’ve seen posts by some racers that have developed a reverse lockout.
 
Have you looked at the cutouts in the shifting forks? The edges may be worn allowing entrance to reverse?
 
AUSMHLY, thanks for the suggestion. I am not planning to do any invasive diagnostics at this time...unless it becomes more of an issue. I'm assuming it's more of a shifting technique issue than a mechanical one.
 
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