gear lever problem

[jitsukadave]

this is daves dad


my daughter has got a 1.3 ford fiesta and the gear stick has suddenly gone very slack can still get all gears ok but gear stick very sloppy no bias can anyone advise what the problem might be thanks

[Avocet]

Not familiar with the Fiesta linkage but it's more than likely to be a rubber or nylon bush that's collapsed. Try pulling up the gaiter and having a look at the base of the lever for any obvious play. If it isn't that, follw the rods through the bulkhead to the gearbox and see if any of the individual links have play in them.

[pdmotors]

I have to agree with avocet on this one mate

[360 stradale]

Definately the linkage, as mentioned. The nylon ball in the base of the gearstick has worn. It's a d.i.y job to replace it, four ten mm nuts hold it in from inside the car. It drops out from underneath, so you will need the car raised on axle stands or drive-on ramps. Secured to gearbox via a bolt (10m.m) and a conecting rod (13 m.m clamp) set it up with the gears in neautral position. Make a paint mark on the selector rod poking out of the gearbox, then slowly move it about (using the mark as a guide) until all gears are re-gained.

[jitsukadave]

Dad says cheers. I think he's sorting it as I type.