C2 Shifter issue

[Mark P.]

I found this in a past post and wanted to know if this would fix a C2 (1965) shifter that goes into reverse without pulling up on the T.

Is slop pretty common with C2 shifters ?

"Unscrew the shifter ball. Remove spring. Pull shifter T out. Note that the
thin rod is held in place with a set screw. The rod is bent over at 90 degrees. Loosen set screw and make sure rod is all the way down. Then tighten and reassemble. An easy cure which my '65 needs every couple of years. I do not know why the rod slips up but all of a sudden I can not get into reverse: But the easy cure seems to fix it for awhile."

[John H.]

Re: C2 Shifter issue

Mark -

Here's what the bottom of the shifter looks like, with the pin that's attached to the T-handle protruding - that's what prevents the lever from entering the reverse gate. If you can get into reverse without pulling up on the T-handle, either the bottom of the pin has broken off or the threaded stud on the left side of the photo has worn or has fallen out.

[Mark P.]

Re: C2 Shifter issue

John - that is a great picture. I figured that was what was happening and got lucky yesterday when I fixed it. The set screw that holds wire (connected to the pin) in position was loose and the pin was in an up position. Once I pushed it down and tightened the screw the reverse lock-out works perfectly and I can drive it with confidence. When I test drove it before I fixed it I inadvertently put it into reverse a couple times at stop signs.

Thanks,

Mark