3 on tree shift adjustments

[Smedley]

Looking to fine tune the shifting on my Bronco. 302, 3 speed on the tree, 1" BL. I have been driving it for a bit and I am noticing a few things. 2nd and 3rd gears are smooth, either at a stop or while driving. However, first and reverse are not as smooth. At a stop, sometimes I need to work through the gears to get it either 1st or reverse. Also, while driving when I try to down shift from 2nd to 1st I have to grind it a bit to get it into 1st. No issues with down shifting from 3rd to 2nd.
Any 3 speed experts that can help me dial this in? Which shift lever should I start with?

Thanks,
Will

 

[thegreatjustino]

If you put the transmission in neutral, you can align the shift arms at the steering column by putting a long nail or unbent coat hanger through the holes in the arms and the alignment bracket on the column. Once that's done, climb under the Bronco and adjust the shift linkages so they are nice and tight in neutral. That should firm up the shifts.

This will help some, but if the synchros in the transmission are worn, it's never going to shift 100% without grinding occasionally. Adjusting your clutch at the fork could also make some improvement.

I have a Bronco that I frequently have to double clutch from a dead stop in order to get it to go into first without grinding. Especially if I'm shifting from reverse to first when backing off my driveway.

 

[m_m70]

no syncros in first so "downshifting" while at speed is not going to work well.