I have a lot of play in my shifter. I can actually move it around about 1/2" while in any gear. What would cause this?

 

You have a worn shifter bushing.

 

It's worn. Get a short shifter and that will fix it. afterwards you'll wonder why you did'nt do it sooner. I've used the Mazdaspeed and the Pettit ones and both work good. Pettit is a little shorter throw, at least it is if you buy their **** also.
Eric

 

You can replace the shifter bushing very cheaply. I have yet to drive a short shifter I liked; they are all notchy (yes, they were broken in). The stock shifter is wonderful and if you are missing shifts that is your fault and not the car's.

Mazda Competition has an aluminum bushing that replaces the stock plastic one on the end of the shifter were it engages the tranny for less than $10. I just added one and there is no additional vibration or noise, it just feels more rigid.

 

Do you have the link to Mazda Competition?

 

Is this the same as Mazdaspeed?