Shift Linkage 1946 Super Six

dr01a1940

We now have the car running and are moving on to being able to drive it. The shifter will only engage 2nd and high gears. I have looked at the Mechanical Procedures Manual and how what it refers to as "cross shifting" is cable controlled and I understand the adjustment procedure. What I'm seeking is any available advice on working with the cable and lever at the transmission to try to free it up. I'm hoping that there is nothing internal in the transmission that is preventing the cable/lever arm from moving. Any suggestions as to an approach to evaluate this issue?

I also want to ask about the main linkage arm running from the column to the transmission. The rubber bushings on both ends are in bad shape. On the upper end an old nail is in the pin and tries to pull almost all the way through the rubber bushing. Shouldn't there be some type of hard washer between the cotter key and rubber bushing and shouldn't there be a hard washer between the column lever and the rubber bushing on that side? Finally, where is the best place to get new rubber bushings for each end of this linkage arm? Hopefully, they are available.

Appreciate any suggestions on these things. We will be taking a look at the linkage this Friday. Pictures of each end of the linkage arm are attached.

Glowplug

Wildrick Rubber products website has the shift lever bushings.

Also the bushings originally had a thin steel washer on both sides of the rubber bushing.  Remove the nail and use a cotter key after the bushings are replaced.  Once this is done the shifting can be checked.  I believe that the column in that car was replaced with a late model handi shift column... this being the case the mechanical proceedures manual will have the right adjusting instructions.

Nerve_Center

It's common for the cable to stick and unlikely there is anything wrong on the gearbox. Try and disconnect the cable from the box and operate the mechanism to select between 1/R and then 2/3. You might need someone inside to operate the clutch if you don't have the floor out. Leaving the cable connected at the steering column end but disconnected at the box, try and get some penetrant down it and along its length and work it with the shift lever. You may need to source another cable.

dr01a1940

Thanks for the suggestions. I have the new bushings, so we will be looking at this hopefully later this week.