Hi,

In need of some guidence on my cable gear change on MK R1. It works but not as well as I would like, the gear lever does not return to a central position after changing gear this has to be done by hand. Judging by clips on Youtube this is not the norm.

Does/should the 'rod' on the gearbox offer enough to return the gear stick to a central position? Once I put in gear the linkage stays in that position. As I believe I have too much friction in the set up.

Do not want a paddle shift as then will loose stalks, Could anyone provide pics of their cable setup to compare as I cannot see how it can be routed differently. Or offer any suggestions to improve existing setup.

Thanks for any help
Jim








[Edited on 19/2/13 by jimhammer]

My Blackbird with cable gearchange was exactly the same so I extended a lever below the gear lever into the drive tunnel; and attached 2 springs to it pulling in opposing directions to centre the gear lever.
Gear lever now centres nicely

See this
http://www.locostbuilders.co.uk/viewthread.php?tid=98800
In answer to the question, yes, properly set up the internal spring return should be enough

You need a light cable and shallow bends

[Edited on 20/2/13 by ReMan]

I had a cable and had exactly the same as you - the gear selector wouldn't return and it was a bit floppy.
I ended up fabricating a gear selector from linkages and pivots and it works a treat.
If you're interested I'll upload some pictures now it seems like the site is working again

Thanks for replies very helpful, liked the idea of the springs very locost!

Barkalaar would appreciate pics if you can be bothered.

In addition to making sure you've not got too tight a bend etc. it's worth taking the cable off and seeing how much friction is in it. They do wear and start to bind especially if they're running anywhere near manifold etc. Usually change mine annually on the race car.

Bob, that's a very interesting blog you have, will be spending a few hours there I think!

Regards
Jim