Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1951 Dodge Cursader, shift levers, cursader

Question
Hi Brad

I have a 1951 Dodge Crusader, its the canadian version of the meadowbrook. I am facing the same issue as you. When I put the gear into reverse for some reason it does not move back as its still engaging as if it was first. All the other gears do the same thing. The car hasn't been driven in a while and I am lost as to what it could be.

Any suggestions would help.

Thanks

Answer
Column shifters had a problem with wear at the bottom end of the shift column. When the pin and shifter arms wore then careless shifting would cause the transmission to be in two gears at once. You might be able to get then in the right position under the hood. With some one holding the clutch depressed, engine not running and the wheels block so that the car does not roll away, open the hood and locate the shift levers at the bottom of the steering column. move the levers back and forth until you feel each one of them in the middle position. This should be neutral. You can start the car up and check. If this works then try to move the shift lever on the column inside the car and see if the transmission will shift through it's gears. If it does then you are in clover, and if it does not then things need to come apart for repair.
Brad