Redline in the tranny is great, but it may not be the answer for this problem, which
has come up before. Below is info from msgs I have saved, including info from Daryl of
AA transaxle.

-Engine off, put the shifter in the gear that is hard to get into.
-Pull up the rubber boot at the bas of the shifter.
-MARK the current position of the two nuts holding the plate so you can revert.
-Loosen the two nuts and smack, push or use the lever to move the plate SLIGHTLY
toward the steering wheel.
-Tighten the nuts and see how it shifts.
-If you marked them and it is worse or no better, put it back where it was.
Worked for me and others.
Jerry
----- Original Message -----
From: "Jean-Woo Kim" <jeanwoo@FULLER.EDU>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Wednesday, June 30, 2004 12:50 AM
Subject: Shifting problem

> I have a question about my 87 GL Wolfsburg Edition's 4-speed shifter. When I
> start the car in the morning it is always difficult to put it in gear,
> particularly in the 1st. (Actually putting it in reverse is fine.) After the
> van warmed up a little, after 10 minutes or so of driving, it becomes easier
> to shift but still a little sticky. Interestingly, it is buttery with the
> engine off and clutch depressed. This makes me rule out the possibility of
> worn bushings or alignment of the shifter rods. What can it be? And how can
> I go about fixing it?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Jean-Woo