3 speed floor shifter question

[bigbluthng]

is there any adjustment to a floor shifter's side to side motion? the trans engages r,1,2,3 just fine but there is a lot of slop side to side making it difficult going from first to second. trans is a 3 speed manual originally out of a fairlane.

[Mach428]

I've never seen a side-to-side adjustment on a shifter. There are bushings that you could possibly replace and restore the original clearances; however, there may be more to the issue. Have you removed the shifter for inspection?

[Dave Severson]

Depends on the brand of shifter, some did have a spring in them. If it becomes warn you could perhaps replace it or maybe add a shim or two in order to limit the side motion a bit. Chances are, the shifter has just been used a lot and is worn out. However, anything is rebuild-able if you have the patience and a bit of creativity in you fabrication skills!!!!! Good luck!