Difficulty getting out of reverse

[alextucker]

I have a non stock Hurst shifter in my charger, I did not install it so I don't know much about it. It is easy to hit reverse but getting tougher to get out and sometimes takes all my effort. I'm worried now I'm doing damage as I know the stock shifter has that release lever. Any ideas how to prevent damage bar changing it back to stock?

 

[miller]

I'm worried now I'm doing damage as I know the stock shifter has that release lever.

I'd suggest taking a look at the release lever linkage itself. Maybe needs adjusting, or parts worn out, not allowing it to release all the way.
Time to dig!

 

[WileE]

If it's a comp plus shift mechanism, you have to disconnect the linkage. Insert the alignment tool through the hole with the shift levers aligned. With the trans levers in the neutral/middle position, and reverse trans lever not engaged, you then adjust all the shift rods for proper alignment. Remove the shift alignment tool.

 

[alextucker]

Thanks guys. Does this lovely hurst 4 speed arm (not comp) negate the need for the reverse lever? Just trying to understand how it all works before I start the digging as I've no experience in this area ... so far.

 

[oldbee]

Try adjusting first like WileE says; you could have trans internal problem also. Think the "alignment" bar he talks about was about 1/4"dia and shaped like an Allen wrench.

 

[kiwigtx]

"Jumping out" of reverse gear would definitely indicate a trans problem. Getting stuck in reverse gear suggests an alignment issue with the shifter mechanism.

A couple of spanners (wrenches) and a 1/4" bolt about 2-1/2" long should help out.

 

[alextucker]

Can the stock shifter with the reverse release lever on the shifter be just bypassed by fitting a hurst arm or would the whole linkage as shown in that lovely photo have been upgrade/replaced? Just trying to guess what the last guy did before I get under with my new alignment knowledge and 1/4 inch bolt.

 

[kiwigtx]

Can the stock shifter with the reverse release lever on the shifter be just bypassed by fitting a hurst arm or would the whole linkage as shown in that lovely photo have been upgrade/replaced? Just trying to guess what the last guy did before I get under with my new alignment knowledge and 1/4 inch bolt.

Sorry, I am only familiar with the stock shifter mechanisms.

 

[oldbee]

I haven't touched a 4-spd trans or shifter in probably 3 decades,, but you could have wear in shifter,trans(needle bearings,shift forks, side cover plate) or shifter arm bushings or a combination of all the above that could cause problem. Just throwing out possibilities.

 

[oldbee]

Or ur clutch not releasing all the way? Just another crazy idea from what you describe.

 

[WileE]

Try adjusting first like WileE says; you could have trans internal problem also. Think the "alignment" bar he talks about was about 1/4"dia and shaped like an Allen wrench.

Exactly. Most times these problems arise from mis-aligned linkage. I just replaced my own clutch & rebuilt the A-833, still had to get the linkage just right.

 

[olddog67]

Hey Alex, is that a stock steering wheel for these cars?

 

[alextucker]

Hey Alex, is that a stock steering wheel for these cars?

Nope I swapped it out for a nice wooden one I picked up at SEMA last year. Still have the stock one of course as attached.