3 speed Transmision 2nd/3rd lever stuck in neutral

[69OrangeBronco]

I'm installing a 3 speed RAT transmission that I just got because the old 3 speed RAN transmission had a cracked case. I'm installing the transmission, adapter, and transfer case one piece at a time. Got the transmission in, then checked to make sure both levers were able to shift which they were. Then installed my adapter and cross member. Adapter went on smooth, but lining up the bolts for the cross member was a PAIN! Finally got it with some help from a pry bar and a friend. Re checked my shifter arms on the transmission, and now the 2/3 is stuck in the neutral position. The 1/R shifts fine. Also the end gear of the adapter won't spin. I would assume that since the transmission is in neutral this should spin freely? Any suggestions on how to get the 2/3 arm un-stuck? Thanks in advance for the help!

 

[DirtDonk]

When you installed just the transmission, did you hold the rear output shaft in place when you were shifting through the gears?
On these types of transmissions, without the rear adapter, the output shaft can move in and out. And will often do so while you’re shifting (especially the 2/3 maybe?) because it’s moving things around inside.
If it went far enough out, then you may have dislodged some of the roller bearings that fit between the input and output shafts.
However, I think that if this was the case, you would not be able to install the adapter. Seems like if the rear bearing was held out far enough, the adapter wouldn’t bolt back up.
Did you notice anything when you installed the adapter to the transmission? Did you have to pull it up the last quarter inch or so with the bolts?

 

[Broncobowsher]

Also, for you 3-speed experts, isn't there a slight difference in case lengths between the RAT and RAN? Not talking the I6 stuff, just V8 differences.
The output shaft falling out of place is pretty common. The manual calls for a special service tool, but really all you need to do is keep it locked in gear until it is installed.

My initial thought from just reading the title, there is an interlock inside the transmission so you can't go into 2 gears at once and lock it up. If the interlock thinks it is in R-1 it will block the 2-3 linkage from going into gear.

 

[69OrangeBronco]

When you installed just the transmission, did you hold the rear output shaft in place when you were shifting through the gears?
On these types of transmissions, without the rear adapter, the output shaft can move in and out. And will often do so while you’re shifting (especially the 2/3 maybe?) because it’s moving things around inside.
If it went far enough out, then you may have dislodged some of the roller bearings that fit between the input and output shafts.
However, I think that if this was the case, you would not be able to install the adapter. Seems like if the rear bearing was held out far enough, the adapter wouldn’t bolt back up.
Did you notice anything when you installed the adapter to the transmission? Did you have to pull it up the last quarter inch or so with the bolts?

I did not hold the output shaft while shifting so maybe that's my problem. The adapter went on all the way without needing much help from the bolts. Looks like I need to drop the transmission again and look inside of it. Thanks for your response!

 

[69OrangeBronco]

Also, for you 3-speed experts, isn't there a slight difference in case lengths between the RAT and RAN? Not talking the I6 stuff, just V8 differences.
The output shaft falling out of place is pretty common. The manual calls for a special service tool, but really all you need to do is keep it locked in gear until it is installed.

My initial thought from just reading the title, there is an interlock inside the transmission so you can't go into 2 gears at once and lock it up. If the interlock thinks it is in R-1 it will block the 2-3 linkage from going into gear.

When I installed it, I had both levers in the neutral position. Should I have had one of them in gear?

 

[m_m70]

Also, for you 3-speed experts, isn't there a slight difference in case lengths between the RAT and RAN?

RAT is .5" longer. Not an expert, but in my notes when I swapped............FWIW

 

[DirtDonk]

When I installed it, I had both levers in the neutral position. Should I have had one of them in gear?

Yes, always.
I believe the manual calls for a specific gear, such as Reverse. But I’m not sure if it’s critical or not.
And you can’t just put it in gear because it can pop out when you’re messing around. You have to put it in gear and then lock the two levers together. I think the most common method is with zip ties.
I did have someone make the special tool that the manual calls for, and I keep that in my drawer should I ever need to let someone borrow it.

 

[69OrangeBronco]

Yes, always.
I believe the manual calls for a specific gear, such as Reverse. But I’m not sure if it’s critical or not.
And you can’t just put it in gear because it can pop out when you’re messing around. You have to put it in gear and then lock the two levers together. I think the most common method is with zip ties.
I did have someone make the special tool that the manual calls for, and I keep that in my drawer should I ever need to let someone borrow it.

Thank you! I will be sure to do this when I re install