2 weeks ago I backed out of the garage and went on my merry way only to find out it was the last time (for 2 weeks) I would be able to find reverse. Fearing the worst I was planning for a full transmission rebuild. I dropped by my mechanic, Greg Petersen, to see what he thought. His diagnosis was shifter and linkage wear and adjustment.

Saturday I went to LS Corvair in Harbor City and picked up a Corsa shifter and base flap. Sunday morning we commenced taking the whole shift linkage out of the car. (by we I mean Greg with me staying out of the way until he needed me for something) He disassembled the shaft and linkages, reconditioned them, welded worn out holes on the rear coupler and re-drilled new holes to tighten the connection. Once this was all back together we spent about and hour realigning and setting up the shift pattern.

We took it out for a spin and the shifting was tight. 1st & 2nd snap right in and 3rd now requires a slight push out of second and it runs cleanly into gear. The tightness will take a few days to get used to but an accommodation I am willing to make. :)

While Greg was under the car I took the opportunity to fish in my new speedo cable and now that is operating again I say operating because I still need to get it calibrated to the correct tire size and the odometer gearing replaced but the needle moves again and I at least have some reference for pacing myself.