gear linkage rod

[Pmill52]

Hi Guys,

Does anyone know what the linkage rod is for under the engine on the left side looking at the car from the rear??
I assume its the gear linkage rod.
Is this correct and if so where can i get hold of a new one.
The one on my Vehicle has been tightened up at the joints using cable ties , i assume that this was due to excess play causing selection issues, should have only been a temp repair at best but it's still in place and requires a replacement linkage rod.

Thanks.

[Rob Bell]

You mean the gearbox selector mechanism? You can find this under the gearbox, near the centre line of the car. The selector lever rarely causes problems, but the cable ends can fall off - largely because the joint at the end can disintegrate. Perhaps that explains the cable ties?

But gear selection troubles are generally not due to this. More wear and excess play appears at the gear selector mechanism inside the car.

The bronze thrust washers (C) wear - and should be replaced to ensure that there is no more than 0.010" of play.

A bit more here: http://www.mgf.ultimatemg.com/group2/DI ... /index.htm

[MGFMania]

The old joint has probably fallen apart, kit available for £21.95 on ebay http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/121893873007

[Pmill52]

Just an update on the above.
After looking at it from underneath it looks like a cable goes to an arm, which in turn is linked to another arm via a rod, the rod had a socket to accept the ball on the end of each of the arms.
It's this rod with the socket at each end i am talking about, bear in mind that mine is a steptronic.

Regards.

[Tipper]

The Steppy has a solid rod near the gearbox which I think is to do with the Park pawl/lock within the gearbox. I presume Rimmer Bros would have the necessary replacement parts available but I haven't checked.

Edit: Just had a look and they are shown on the diagrams http://www.rimmerbros.co.uk/Item--i-GRID018891 Two different types depending on your car VIN number.

[Pmill52]

Ha right i see, i will order a replacement from Rimmers, thanks for your help, will check vin no and get one ordered!!
Thanks again.

[Rob Bell]

Ahhhhhhhh! A steptronic! Totally different kettle of fish!

[Pmill52]

Hi Chaps.

Just a quick update on the above in case anyone has the same issues.
Replaced the part with a new one from Rimmers, After taking a look at the old one it became clear what has happened.
At some point the rod had broken close to one end, it had been welded back together at that end. the heat generated had melted the plastic lining where the rod pops onto the ball. this would have caused slack which would have in turn affected gear selection.
So, the owner had tied cable ties round each end to try to correct the slack, blimey, the lengths some people will go to rather than buy a replacement part!!!
Anyway its all done now, thanks guys!!!

[Rob Bell]

Thanks for that update - and I agree - would have been much easier to replace the part! Or perhaps braize it together rather than weld?