anyone up to speed with Alfa 147's

[andymc]

Hello Guys
would have posted in the Alfa section but im hoping for a quick reply, took one these in as a part ex (1600 on a 2003), the gearbox feels very vague, loads of play even when in gear, where they like that from new or is it a worn linkage? im new to Alfas so all help is welcome
ps would you fix it?

[ukmike2000]

Sounds like the linkage is badly worn - the gearchange is normally pretty positive. Shouldn't be too costly in parts but it would be a fiddly job to change if I recall correctly.
Do the gears themselves select ok once you find the right slot?

Might be one to walk away from

[andymc]

the gears go in fine, already have the thing but it was very cheap

[andy-xr]

It's just a spring that's popped IIRC

[twizellb]

Probably top hat bushes, I just bought one with the same problem.
The bushes cost £5 for the pair from Autolusso.
Bit of a fiddle to do as you have to disconnect the battery and remove the battery box to get at them.
There is a guide with pics on how to do on the Alfaowners forum.
Had mine done last week and it took 1hr.

[andymc]

does anyone have the forum link?

[andymc]

have bought the top hats!

[crostonian]

If there's loads of play when in gear it could be that the cables have stretched.