Interesting problem solved

[ultraslow]

My '85 S3, 4spd, solid axle developed an interesting problem after I changed the transmission oil a few months ago. After the fluid change it sat for three months while I waited for White Post to repair my master cylinder. When I finally got to get back out for a blat, I couldn't get the linkage to cross neutral. I could access Rev, 1st and 2nd but it wouldn't make the trip through neutral into 3rd and 4th. Much confusion ensued.

Noticed that the linkage worked with the cover off and went from there. :drool:The problem was a very slight difference in thickness of the cover plate on the top of the trans under the breather hole. When replacing the plate after the fluid change the plate got turned 180, there didn't seem to be any diff to me. However, there was just enough interference between the tacked on baffle for the breather and the shifter fork to prevent the linkage making the trip across the H. Live and learn. Hope this helps someone out.

BTW, The folks at Dave Bean, Ken esp, were of great help in assisting me in chasing down the problem.

ultraslow

[CASwede]

That is indeed helpful, since I'll likley be opening my own plate up for a pump out/fill in a couple of weeks. I'll be sure to keep it aligned.

 

Did you have to replace the gasket, or do you just check it for wear and re-use?