Triumph Repair: Shifting to reverse in 75 Spit 1500, tail shaft, gearshift lever

Question
Hi. I saw a related question on this regarding a GT6: I have a recently-purchased 75 Spitfire (U.S. import model w/single carb); she does not want to go into reverse without a struggle, esp when cold (like sitting overnight). It seems like the gearshift lever can't find the "slot" (or whatever it would be called). It does not make any noises, just can't get over to that far-right-and-up position. I've tried lifting up, pushing down, etc. on the gearshift lever, but it does not feel like it is lifting or pushing down (maybe some part is missing or ?). At some "magical moment" it will find its way to the reverse slot. When it finally does find the "slot" it goes right into reverse, no growls or other noises. The forward gears all shift smooth, no noise at all, and when running down the road the transmission is as nice as you please. She came with an old Haynes repair book, but it's not helpful. It does describe a "remote control" unit that is attached to the gearshift lever and has some rods that translate the gearshift movement to the transmission. I am wondering if something in this control unit is out of sorts.

She runs great otherwise and is a very happy car! Thanks for any help.

Answer
Robert,

Your transmission is what's known as a "Single Rail" transmission.  The earlier transmissions ( Three rail) had reverse to the left and up.  

The Single Rail transmission shift lever rides in an aluminum extension on the tail shaft (back portion) of the transmission casing, with a ball and socket arrangement.  When new everything was lightly greased at the factory.  30 years later I suspect that it could use at least a good cleaning and regreasing.

To remove the shift lever on your car all you need to do is undo the rubber shifter boot (maybe removing the carpet first, depending upon how well it's all fitting.  All that holds the shift lever in place is the domed steel cap around the shift lever itself.  Twist the cap slightly and the shift lever should pull up with a bit of gentle wiggling/persuasion.

From there you can clean the shift lever a bit and lightly grease it before reinstalling.


Cheers,

Jim