Last updated: February 15, 2001

Shifter Maintenance

Date: Thu, 8 Feb 2001 12:25:47 -0800
From: "Hoskinson, Jeff" (jeff.hoskinson@pscnet.com)
Subject: (rx7) [3] Having problems shifting??? Try shifter bushings

As FDs are getting older you need to take a look at your shifter bushings. My last 2 project cars needed the 2 wavy washers and the little plastic piece that snaps onto the end of the ball. I replaced everything while I was in there though.

There are several parts, if you FD has a loose shifter or high mileage check them out. Here is a list of parts, part # not included. I didn't add up the cost from Mazdacomp, but if I had to guess I'd say everything I listed is probably <$30 or so. If you go to the dealer it would be close to 2X.

• Shift boot (pulls over shifter, bolts to trans, rips in 10-20K miles but still wears after that)
• Wavy washer top (snaps on to the bushing on top of the shifter)
• Wavy washer bottom
• Bushing on top (replace this one at the same time as the boot listed above, put it on first)
• Bushing on the bottom (goes into the trans, Wavy washer is below it)
• Bushing on the bottom of shifter (new one snaps onto the end of the shifter, Mazdacomp has AL ones, never tried them)
• Bushing on the shifter ball (this bushing "indexes" the shifter to the trans, just pulls out of the shifter)

Anyway all these bushings and boots are really easy to change (less than 30 min easy) and make a HUGE difference in how your trans feels. Don't forget to GREASE the big ball part of the shifter, it can't stay oiled because of its location. The grease will help the bushings last longer also. The bottom of the shifter housing on the trans should have some gear oil in it.