Shifter/Clutch Probs '89 200Q

[Larry C Leung]

Hello,

Since my last post, I have managed to check out the shift linkage from
above.

All fasteners are tight, and the sprinback (per Bentley's Section 34) is
biased too much for the right side (5th gear) side of the gate, but it
doesn't seem to explain why the shifter is soooo sloppy, when it is
engaged in a gate, the lever can easily be moved from side to side the
width of an entire gate 
(i.e. when in the 3-4 gate I can, with relatively light pressure, move
the lever to make it appear it is in either the 1-2 or 5-R gate.
Likewise, when in the 1-2 gate, it can be made to be in the 3-4 gate,
etc.).

In addition, althoug the clutch works (sort of) it's very difficult to
get into 1st from a stop, and reverse still has much grinding to get into
with the engine on, sometimes it's impossible. However, it's easy to get
into either gear engine off. Car no longer creeps in any gear, when a
gear is engaged, but clutch depressed. 

I believe I have two different problems, but I was hoping that the list
can help me here, at least in the diagnosis. Any input would be
appreciated. 

TIA,

LL - NY