pkfinn

I just replaced the bushing on the shifter in my 87 Max. The shifter works great now. No more shifting into 2nd, then back to drive. I just put it in drive and it goes!!

It took about 45 min. and it wasn't hard, just dirty. The shifter is located above the catalytic converter. That's probably why it deteriorates with age. There are 2 heat shields above the converter that must be removed. They are held on with 10mm bolts. I then unbolted the front end of the converter from the exhaust pipe (two 17mm bolts). A little maneuvering to get the rubber hangers at the rear of the converter detached and the converter drops out of the way.

Now you can see and access the shifter. The old bushing was completely gone. There was a lot of slop in the linkage. You remove a little spring clip, flat washer, and wavy washer from the linkage. Remove the old bushing if it's there, then install the new bushing and the rest of the parts in reverse order. I did it with the car up on my Rhino ramps and I had enough room to move around under it.

If you're tired of the shift into 2nd and back to drive routine, I would definitely suggest replacing the bushing. It's worth it.

The part number for the bushing is 34552-D4000 and it cost me less than $5 with tax at the dealer. There is also one where the cable attaches to the transmission. I think it's the same part number. I replaced it on mine the last time I had the engine out a couple of years ago, so it is still in good shape. You can see it from above by looking down near the master cylinder. Access is tough without removing some of the air intake components though. I would also suggest getting a gasket for the front end of the converter, since it kinda falls apart when you separate the converter and pipe. I didn't have one, so I'll get it and change it this weekend.