Sorry Blake, I left 2 things out:

There are specs for the measurement between the right side of the shifter box (directly below the cab underneath the van) and the shifter. Maybe 19 or 21mm...Bentley has it. This will get you close, but it has been my (limited) experience that it is still a bit of a guess and check with the adjustment.

Also, changing the transmission oil may indeed help - did wonders for me. Redline MT-90.

-Ben

> Date: Fri, 9 May 2008 12:26:47 -0400
> From: sartin@GMAIL.COM
> Subject: Shifter buzzing; hard to get into gear
> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> 
> Hi all-
> 
> I am looking for some help on diagnosing this distressing shifter problem on
> my '84.
> 
> As the title says, sometimes it is hard to get it into gear effectively,
> specifically the 1-2 part of the pattern.  I have lived with this quirk, but
> lately it will sometimes just refuse to go into second at all.  Very hard to
> drive like this.
> 
> It is also transmitting a very strong buzzing through the shifter in third
> gear.  It may do it in second too, but I am revving higher shifting from 3-4
> and that's where I notice it; from about 40mph up to 45 or so when I shift
> into 4.
> 
> I plan on changing the tranny fluid this weekend to see if that helps.
> Anyone got any other ideas?  I am at a loss.  Shift fork worn?  Bushings?
> Argh.
> 
> Thanks,
> 
> Blake Sartin
> Moderator, Bus-Life List
> http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/bus-life
> '69 Westy
> '84 Vanagon
> Maryville, TN

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