SHIFTER ADJUSTMENTS (80-86)

SAAB 900 80-86 SHIFTER CENTERING

After mid year 1986, the centering mechanism for the shifter was moved internally to the transmission and is no longer adjustable. On previous years. it is possible for the shifter to be adjusted to give a neutral position that will eliminate hunting for gears and ease shifting effort.

The centering mechanism for the early 900s was a roller and spring assembly that mounted on the interior shift shaft just in front of the shifter housing.
To adjust it, remove the console, drivers seat and left sill plate. Roll back the carpet to expose the shifter housing and the area in front of it. Engage third gear.
Loosen the two retaining bolts that hold the roller bracket in place.
Move the bracket so the rollers drop into the grooves on the plastic block held by a pin to the shifter shaft. Tighten the two bolts.
To test for proper adjustment, move the shifter to neutral and allow it to center itself. You should be able to push it straight up into third, with no hunting
Move the bracket so the rollers drop into the grooves on the plastic block held by a pin to the shifter shaft. Tighten the two bolts.
To test for proper adjustment, move the shifter to neutral and allow it to center itself. You should be able to push it straight up into third, with no hunting
ve a neutral position that will eliminate hunting for gears and ease shifting effort.

There is a spring immediately under the plastic block holding the rollers to the block and providing tension on the mechanism. They commonly break and cause a loose feeling shifter that doesn't return to neutral. The factory spring is p.n. 4029955 and costs $3. when the spring is replaced, the mechanism should be readjusted as described above to negate any wear over the years.