Sloppy shift stick

[coW52Dodge]

The stick on my truck is really sloppy. I realize this isn't precision shifting but the seems to be a lot of movement in the stick. if I grab the handle, I can turn it about 10 degrees, not making shifting very easy.

Of course, I'm used to vintage European cars so have no frame of reference. What kind of movement is normal?

In fact, regarding its sloppiness, the previous owner must have never gotten a good handle on shifting this truck because he sold me the truck as a three speed. After some fiddling around, I was pleasantly surprised to find a fourth gear today. It is very had to find but there's definitely something there. I can't drive the truck on the road to verify but I can easily get it to stall when that gear is engaged.

Anyway, what's under the shifter that could be the cause of its sloppiness?

[norrism1]

Helps to know Make, model, year, engine size and tranny model.

[coW52Dodge]

Sorry - It is a 1952 1/2 ton.

Apparently a four speed.

[norrism1]

Probably have to remove shifter tower to look at the inside, other wise just doing nothing but quessing. I suggest getting the exploded view from the DPETCA link and after looking at inside then get more real info on what is worn out.

[coW52Dodge]

Thanks. That makes sense.

[Frank Ollian]

Did you find what caused the slop in your shifter? I have several transmissions with this same problem, just curious.

Frank Ollian

[coW52Dodge]

Did you find what caused the slop in your shifter? I have several transmissions with this same problem, just curious.

Frank Ollian

This one has forks. Not sure what good forks look like but these look a bit tired.

I carefully bolted it back and decided to just get used to it for now.