Shifter rattle (I know, it's been covered)

[burlyb]

'82. Finally tiring of the high rpm (3500+) shifter rattle/buzz. I have a short shifter (the billet one with the two set screws) that is a solid fit to the original shift lever. A few years ago I rebuilt the shifter assembly with new bushings etc, but re-used the original anti-rattle spring. Does a new spring really make a difference to reduce vibration. The shifter lever really rattles around in the lever cup and the spring really appears to make no difference. Does everyones shifter do this or is it possible to tame this thing a bit?

Thanks.

Bryan

[TFichter]

I have exactly the same problem with an ‘82 spider. I’ve even replaced the spring clip on the lower shift lever with a new clip. I still have the rattle but it’s most prominent in the 3rd and 5th gears. I understand that the original upper arm shift lever also dampens rattles but I really prefer the shorter billet lever. I wondered if I should try replacing the lower shift lever because the integrated ‘balls” are worn? Can it be replaced easily from inside the car? What is the procedure? Also, a new shift lever spring kit has been installed like ‘burlyb”. Can someone assist both of us? Thanks!

[maxm50]

Bringing up an old thread, hopefully someone has input here.
I also have shifter rattle above 4000ish RPM in any gear. Luckily this 2L engine is so torquey down low, I rarely run it past 4500 rpm anyway

Here's what I've done:
- new shifter cup/bushing kit
- new anti-rattle spring clip
- new short shifter from Alison's Auto (one piece stainless steel, includes stainless steel lower ball)

None of this made the rattle any less vs. the old stock shifter. FWIW my stock shifter had a cracked plastic ball. There just seems to be a lot of play between the ball and socket, and that tiny little anti-rattle spring would never be strong enough to keep the assembly from rattling due to engine vibration. Next on my list is replacing the motor mounts and transmission mount, hopefully to just reduce vibrations overall. 40 year old rubber mounts are never going to be in good shape, especially judging by how much everything else that's rubber under the hood degrades.

My transmission seems to be in good shape - it shifts really smoothly. The rattle is definitely linked to engine RPM, not driveline rotation speed, so my guess is it's just too much engine vibration for this poor loosely toleranced shifter linkage.

[18Fiatsandcounting]

I'd definitely change the engine and transmission mounts at this point, as they could be rock hard and the source of the problem. Also check that the downpipe and exhaust plumbing isn't touching the underside of the body or anything on the transmission. That can also be a source of rattles.

-Bryan