Tranny/ linkage issue? (weird one)

I am at a loss, I hope somebody can help.

Yesterday I took my 54 Ford (239, 3 on the tree) on a pretty long trip, but Ive taken it on longer w/ out a problem.

Prob# 1: On the way back after letting it sit fir over an hour, I pulled over to take a leak, when I got back on the highway in third gear it started cutting out and losing power, since my fuel gauge doesnt work I thought I might be running out of gas. When it only took 5 gallons I got worried, but I got back on the highway it did do it again but then went away.
I only added this problem because it might give some foreshadowing into the next prob.
Prob#2: Two bars later i had to paralell park, I put it in first, and went inside ( keep in mind I cant lock my car, I leave vent windows open.) Anyway when I got back to my car it would not go into any gear,,,shit the shifter wouldnt even move, and it was in the neutral position, and it was locked in 3rd gear.

Has this happened to anyone else? I figure its just a linkage issue but the way it happened has just stumped me.

Any input would be great. Thanks for making it this far down a long boring post.
Thanks,Dave

 

Sound like some play/looseness in the shifter mechanism. Either whre it exits the column or at the shifter lever at the trans.


jerry

 

thanks Jerry I'll check it in the morning.

 

this is a real common prob on column shift cars - when the linkage wears out, the trans can lock itself out by remaining in 1st while you try to go to 2nd. You're essentially in both gears at once. Go under the car and set both shift quadrant to the neutral (middle) position. 90% chance all will be well - until it does it again!

 

This happens all of the time. When you get it unlocked and shiftable again, be careful when you shift it, it will happen again.

While you are trying to fix it, look at all of the linkage and replace any bushings that are worn or missing. Adjust the linkage the best that you can and be careful (I might have said that before).

 

Note: he said put the car in neutral. Be sure you set the emergency brake (whatever that is) or block the wheels so it doesn't run over you.

.bjb

 

Maybe the best way would be to raise the rear of the car and put jack stands in the back and block the front wheels, before you go under the car This way you will unload the drivetrain and you'll be able to put the transmission in neutral easier. Make sure that the emergency brake is released too.