Minor Shifting Problems Options

[ne14914]

I am having some minor shifting problems I need some help with.

When I downshift into 2nd, or 3rd gear, sometimes i get a grinding sound. I know i am shifting it into the correct gear. It also happens when I am sitting at a light, and I go into first gear. The clutch does not slip, and seems to be pretty solid.

Also, is it common for the 914 to have such a long throw. It seems longer than my old 65 VW. I was thinking of adding a short shift kit - what do you guys think?

Craig

[Dave_Darling]

Step 1: Adjust the clutch. Yeah, I know you're sure it's adjusted--adjust it again!! Seriously; the grinding going into 1st gear is often a sign that the clutch isn't quite letting go all the way.
Step 2: Adjust the shift linkage. It's free, and sometimes can solve these kinds of problems. Not often, but it's free and can work.
Step 3: Check or just replace all of the shift bushings and (if you have a 73+ or an earlier car with a side-shift conversion) the cone set screws.

After that, you're talking actual money to really fix things.

The short-shift kit will make the throws shorter. But you will tend to shift faster (one of the reasons for having short throws, yes?). That will make it easier to "beat" the synchros, so you'll get back into "grind-ville" a lot faster. It can make the slop seem smaller, because all of the motion (including the slop) will be smaller.

--DD