In a message dated 11/25/98 4:09:50 AM, jbishop01@foxinternet.net wrote:

<<
I saw the message on the Vanagon list and couldn't help be reminded of my
'81 Subaru Wagon 4wd with a tranny that sounds similar to what you
describe:  I'd have to put it in first right when I stopped, otherwise it
wouldn't go in.  It would lock up into reverse and I'd either have to shut
the engine off and get it out of gear or sometimes I could lug the engine
down with the brake on and slide it out of gear at the right time.  It was
all very frustrating, but since I didn't have the money nor the motivation
to fix the old car, I learned to live with it.  The thing still runs today
with 180k+ miles.

I don't really know exactly what causes this but I think it's the
syncro-mesh in the tranny that is worn out.  It could also be a clutch
problem.  I'm sure people will give you lots of input on the list.  I just
thought it was funny to hear someone with similar problems that I used to
have!

The only suggestion that might be of use would be to shift into first gear
at the same time you stop, so that you almost move the lever with the car.
That might help you get into first without going through the other gears.
The only disad is that you have to sit at a stoplight with the clutch down
the whole time.

Good luck-
Jarod
'86 syncro gl>>

Thanks for the info:
I did get a clutch job just a few months ago, so I don't think that's the
problem?
As I did mentioned before, when I am stoped and in neutral, I can't shift into
1st. It's like locked in the neutral position.  After choosing the right words
and shifting it into other gears like a maniac, only then will go into 1st.
Sometimes I can go for days without that problem.
I wonder if it could be a shifting linkage problem? It's just weird how it
comes and go's. I also think that it started shortly after my clutch job, but
I can't trust my memory it's been around for almost 50 years. That too has
linkage problems.
I'm now wondering if the shifting linkage could be off when they replaced the
new clutch???
Well if I can't fix it, at least I got a good recommendation to use Dennis out
on LI, NY. The only problem with that is that green stuff, which doesn't grow
on trees.
Have a good Thanksgiven every one!
Dan
87 Syncro GL Westy
71 Bug Conv

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