I have a 1991 Convertible with a sloppy shift action. I have replaced all the bushings, boots and gaskets and put in new gear oil- it's better but still sloppy. What can I do to get a more direct-positive shift and eliminate the play in my shifter? Do I need to look at the Mazdatrix quick shift kit ?(pretty pricey!). Appreciate any assistance here.

 

With the bushings properly replaced the shifter should be very tight, unless there is excessive wear on the tranny itself (particularly the shift forks and syncros).

A short shift kit will not fix any play in the shifter if you already have new bushings and boots.

 

The bushings swap wasn't done properly.


-Ted

 

Did you replace both sets of bushings (upper/lower)?

 

where can i get all the bushings i'll need for cheap. i think they are bit expensive on mazda trix.

 

victoria british has them i think...but its about the same price...they're not that bad...maybe 20-30 for both upper and lower?....

 

Check for the bushing where the lever tip goes into the socket on the end of the selector rod.
It may be covered in oil, and is easy to miss.
It is S5 specific, so you should have one - the S4's do not.

My NA wa completely missing that bushing.




Also if the two springs that center the selector are missing the lever will flop side to side.

 

Thanks everyone for the advice. I will take it apart and check it again.

 

Only S3 and earlier and S6 and later have that lever socket bushing.

Why won't this old wives tale die???