89 200 shift bushing help

[urq]

... all that you should need to do to get the room you need to work is to 
pop the socket off the link rod at the tranny bellhousing and the bolt that 
attachaes the linkage to the shift rod from the transmission.  This should 
free one end of the linkage so you can move it down to where you can inspect 
it more closesly.  In point of fact you could probably pop the socket off 
the linkage at the tranny shift rod end too ... but one of the most common 
problems with these linkages IME is that the ball comes loose ... so it will 
be good to have that open to inspection too.  The crimped piece is pretty 
thin metal, it doesn't take that much to reshape it so that the 
bushing/washer can be popped out the back ...

HTH!
Steve B
San Jose, CA (USA)


> Recently picked up a 1989 200 turbo quattro avant.....looking for
> suggestions on how to replace a bushing/ball socket.
> I will use part names as in the Bentley.  At the front of the front
> shift rod, where it connects to the trans selector rod.  I need to
> replace the ball socket that fits in the shift rod.  Instructions say
> to install the ball socket into the shift rod with
> washer.............then secure by bending collar onto washer.
> That is my problem.......is there a tool that will fit in that tight
> area and will straighten the crimps so that I can remove the worn ball
> socket and washer?
> Or am I assuming too much to expect to be able to replace the ball
> socket without taking the whole car apart?
> I thought about removing the clamp that connects the front shift rod
> to the rear shift rod, but don't see enough room for that........don't
> see how to hold the bolt while loosening the nut......IF that worked I
> have doubts I would ever get the two parts of the shift rod connected
> again anyway.
>
> What I am seeing is an easy operation with the shift rod out on the
> bench but sure seems tight in the car