i think the reason why i have a non smooth shifter is cuz that spring is fucked. i just got it from mazdatrix but dont know where it goes...thanks for the help!

edit: car is 88 non turbo btw =)

 

That looks like a photo of the shifter return or centering spring; Mazda part number 17-465B-M501. Your shifter uses two of these; one returns the lever to center from the right and one from the left. I don't think replacing this will increase the smoothness of your shifter action unless pieces of the old broken spring are jammed someplace they shouldn't be. It might make it easier for you to find third gear. Generally you have to remove the transmission to replace these springs, but a while back there was a thread in which someone said it is possible to replace the springs with the tranny in the car.

Here is a thread discussing this very part and how to replace it, complete with a link to a procedure for replacing it with the transmission still in the car:

https://www.rx7club.com/showthread.p...+center+spring

Lack of smoothness in shifting is usually the fault of disintegrated shifter bushings, and there are many threads on that subject too. Mazdatrix also sells a kit to replace them. I think it is around $20.

 

tyvm for the info, i also thought it was the bushing thats causing this but after i put in brand new bushings just now from mazdatrix the problem is still there...basically its a loose shifter, feels like theres no springs holdin it unlike a normal shifter, wont bounce back when u hit it to one side etc, just like a metal rod inside a hole...tahts it, gears are still engagable, drives fine, although it takes effort cuz it wont just "click in" like a normal shifter

 

Its possible you may also need to replace the metal plate that holds the assembly down. Over time the plate will warp and the hole the shifter goes through will beld outwards, making the shifter feel very sloppy even with new bushings. If you can pull up on the shifter any at all that plate may need replaced, or if the rubber boot is torn it may need replaced. its a $30 usd part that mazda still sells at the dealerships brand new