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After removing the shifter from a 38 transmission ( in neutral) and carefully, at least I thought re-installing it, it now will not rotate in neutral. I had previously removed it to repaint and re-installed and the trans rotated in neutral just fine. I had to remove it a 2nd time because the new paint somehow was scuffed. After I repainting again, I re-installed for the 2nd time it will not rotate. Any suggestions as I am not very familiar with transmissions.

Must be the color of the new paint. Seriously though, and I am sure you have checked this - make sure both the transmission and the shift top are in neutral before installing the top on the trans. Other than this, can't think of why it worked before, but not now.

(o{}o)

I agree with JW - more than likely you simply have an alignment problem, not a "transmission" problem. Take it off again and make sure the forks are proper in both grooves.

Thank you for your replies, me being ignorant about transmissions is it ok to touch the gears or could I cause a larger problem. I know it sounds ridiculous but I have never had a need to work on transmissions other than basic service.

First, you are not going to damage anything. What has probably happened is one of the gears has slid from the position when you removed the top of the transmission/shift tower. I'd guess you did not move the shifter position being that you are being exceptionally careful due to believing there is thin ice under your feet. When you remove the shift tower this time, carefully line up the shifter forks with the slots in the gears, may need to slide them fore and aft a little bit - no, you won't hurt anything - to line up the forks properly.

Hi Flackmaster,
I like your reply about thin ice, I thought I was being very careful but I guess human error came into play. Thank you for your advice. I will try to do as you suggested this afternoon.

I did exactly what you said and the after moving the gears just slightly the shifter dropped in and now I have neutral and the transmission is unlocked. Many Thanks