Triumph Repair: 78 Spitfire reverse, late model cars, linkage problem

Question
Am looking at a 78 spitfire. Engine & trans "rebuilt" two years ago w/~15K on them (89K total mi). Engine seems tight & smooth. Trans likewise in 1-4 but won't engage reverse. Suspect the linkage problem but don't really know. Any suggestions with assoc. level of repair (I'll do the work)? Thanks!

Answer
Eric,

When you say that reverse "won't engage"... does that mean that you can't find the correct gate?

It's common to find early model transmissions on late model cars, and vice-versa.  The earlier three rail trans has reverse to the left and forward.  The late model single rail trans has reverse to the right and forward.  If you know the difference in the transmissions it's easy to pull up the shift boot and tell by looking at where the shift lever is mounted.

If the problem is actually in the transmission itself it's not a tough job to disassemble/reassemble the trans but there are some specialized tools required for the job.  

Check to see if the car has an earlier trans/or the wrong shift nob installed.  If you need more help in telling a three rail from a single rail, let me know.


Cheers,

Jim