1972 one-year-only 915 shifter - loud noise from reverse lockout

[LiveFromNY]

Having an issue on my 1972 T.

When downshifting out of 5th, the reverse lockout is making a loud clicking noise. As in very loud. It's as if there is so much tension on the lockout that it's snapping back against the shifter base when released. I bought a new (used) shifter thinking that would solve the problem but no go. I drove this car over 2,000km all over Italy last year and had no issues. Then suddenly this.

And, yes, I'm aware that I can upgrade to the 73+ shifter but would really like to keep the look of the earlier shifter if I can.

Anyone ever have this problem?

[edmayo]

I have two 72 S's, and like you I prefer the original shifter. I guess mine make a little noise but I've never really thought about whether it is too loud. If I was to do try to solve for that problem I would remove the shifter assembly, make sure both springs are there, and then lubricate all sliding surfaces with some grease, then make sure on reassembly make sure that the shifter is properly adjusted. I really think that the grease would be most likely to 'muffle' noises.

[LiveFromNY]

Thanks for the reply, Ed.

If it was just a little noise, I'd be ok. But it's closer to a gunshot. Very irritating. As for grease, we're there. And we can't seem to adjust it out. There's no adjustment in the shifter itself, correct? We've tried the other adjustments and it hasn't helped.

Bushings are new. Didn't have this problem before. I'm wondering if the new bushings have caused the problem?

[edmayo]

Can you tell me what method you use to adjust the shift linkage?

[LiveFromNY]

Factory adjustment here:

http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarti...provements.htm

[edmayo]

Maybe it's just me, but that sounds overly complicated. With the rear tunnel cover off, and the coupler pinch bolt loose, move the shift lever all the way towards the 1st/ 2nd gate, notice which way the shift rod moves (opposite direction) now grab hold of the coupler and move it all the way in the same direction the shift rod rotated. Tighten the pinch bolt. See if that helps.

[LiveFromNY]

Thanks, Ed. I'll be in my shop again Friday and give that a try.

[Frank Beck]

I'm with Ed.
Adjusting the shift coupler is a very simple affair and easily accomplished while sitting in the driver's seat.

I know exactly what you're talking about on the noise; your "gunshot" description is apropos. Last one we had the handle was adjusted too far to the left which was causing the lockout lever to "snap" like a hammer on a gun.


At least you have a spare '72 shift lever now.