Allan,

In my experience the normal cause of sloppy shifter can be found in the
rear set of linkage right at the side of the transmission.  I have a
repair kit for these parts that is $124 *(shifterkit2).  Usually the
ball and cup wear out and this causes extra play in the shifter
mechanism.  Replacing them along with a bushing in the back, lubing
everything and then replacing the boot to keep the new lube in place
will tighten things back up.  The front shifter should probably also be
rebuilt if it has never been done as it is composed of some plastic
parts that can fail because of age.  The shifter will drop down and you
won't be able to shift.  I have this shifter kit available as well for
$71(shifterkit1).

The rear kits will only work on waterboxer Vanagons including Syncros.
They will not work on diesel Vanagons or air cooled Vanagons (just to be
as clear as I can be).

Let me know if I can help you further,
Ken Wilford
John 3:16
www.vanagain.com

Allan Streib wrote:
> Anyone familiar with that "gear shift repair kit" and/or other
> remedies for a sloppy shifter?
>
> Also curious about the recalls -- I'd assume the dealer would honor
> them if they've never been done?
>
> Allan
>
>