"ismlv" wrote
We've noticed that on our 74 Standard Bug, when you're in 1 - 4 gear,
> the shifter has a lot of "free play" in it side to side. Kinda like
> when it's in Neutral. Reverse seems to be ok though there are times
> when you have to give it a good nudge over and down to get it into
> Reverse. I've heard that maybe it's a worn bushing that I THINK is
> located at the bottom of the shifter level (i.e. can be replaced while
> seated in the car). Can anyone help me out? Is that a viable reason
> for the free play? I found what I THINK is the part on motorworks.com
> but I'm not sure and my Clymer manual doesn't mention this.
>
> Any help would be appreciated.
>
>
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Definitely sounds like a worn shifter bushing (like in your link). Here's an excellent page that walks you through the replacement:
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The bushing goes in the bracket shown here:
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... just to the rear of the shifter.
It'd probably be a good idea to replace the coupler at the rear under the access plate while you're at it ... or at least inspect it, as you'll be working in that area also.
hth
-- Scott