Joe, I had a problem getting gears on my '82 (first and second being the
worst), .
I replaced the shifter part you described with a new one( this I was given
with the van) as the 'balls' were worn extremely flat on the sides( from
memory they do have flats on the side when new, but my old part was
significantly  worn). This made going into gear a lot easier.
However, there is also an adjustment of the shift rod described in the
Haynes manual to make sure the relationship between the shift rod and the
'balls' is correct.
This I would check out first.
I do not have these specs handy as I am at work, but if no one else replies
I will post on this site this time tomorrow.
However, if you are actually getting the box into gear properly, and it is
then jumping out, you have other more serious problems.
Regards
John.
----- Original Message -----
From: Joe Denison <mjdenison@HOME.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Thursday, May 04, 2000 4:01 AM
Subject: 81 Vanagon Shift Linkage Problem...

> Greetings gang,
>
> I have an '81 Vanagon that is having trouble staying in any gear. I
> think it has something to do with those two little plastic balls right
> next to the tranny, but I'm not sure. The last time it was running I had
> a murderous time getting it to go into gear. It was like it wasn't going
> in far enough. Any suggestions?
>
> Thanks,
> Joe Denison