1986 Jetta Transmission Issues

I have an 86 jetta, which is in pretty good shape. I had the clutch, head gasket and front suspension all replaced, I replaced the rad, water pump, and both fuel pumps (I know ?.$$$$) and also updated the door panels inside and the rims to Gti alloys and am in the process of replacing all four doors with ones from a 92, as well as updating the bumpers and the license plate piece and maybe the seats, although they are heated(one works) and I want to keep that feature if possible. I also replaced the timing belt, the blugs with Bosch dual platinums, and the exhaust manifold gaskets while the head was out for the head gasket??whew??

ANYWAYS?? my issue is that the shifting is a bit chunky feeling when the car is warm, highway hot I mean. When I get off the freeway and drive around town the gears are sometimes difficult to find and it seems really hard shifting. Its fine when cold. The reverse light switch doesn't work and the lockout is also not functional.

Any suggestions??

Reply to
John
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Ever check the gear oil level or better yet has It ever been changed? What about linkage bushings, have they been replaced?

Reply to
Mustangbrad

The shift linkage is likely worn out from time and use, its rebuildable:

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Reverse light is controlled by a switch attached to the end of the transaxle.

Its replaceable:

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Reply to
Roger Brown

I am looking into replaing them now. The only thing is, I am a little vague on what they are exactly. I understand that there are nylon bushings that get worn out and are "easy" to replace/ I am assuming that this shift linkage is under the car and readily accessible, I havent looked yet. Alos, I want to replace the actual shifter ball if there is one and possibly change it to a short throw, which was simple in my '68 squareback, but I suspect a little more dodgy with this car. I want to change the fluid next, and was thinking of trying that redline synthetic oil. Any thoughts on what to do first??

john

Reply to
John

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