1999 Sportsman 500 Shifting Problem

[dogred1]

I can't adjust the linkage so that I can shift from forward to reverse. I can either adjust it to shift from neutral to forward or neutral to reverse. What is it that I might be missing?

[GEARHEAD01]

there is a slight offset in the reverse and forward gear. you have to set either one separate and then shift.

[DirtDemon]

There are two adjustable linkage rods, one is for low range, the other is for high range and reverse. I would assume that the neutral position is between the formward and reverse positions. So if you can get from neutral to reverse or from neutral to forward, but you don't have enough throw to get all the way from forward to reverse, then I would think you have some excessive freeplay in the shifting mechanism somewhere. It could be the linkage itself, the shift lever, or even inside the gearbox, the shift forks could be worn or maybe the forks are working in overly worn grooves. If you can't adjust to the point where you can hit both gears, I would start inspecting every part of the shifting mechanisms starting at the shift lever itself and check for excessively worn parts.

[GEARHEAD01]

the shift linkage is an offset system. it will not throw all the way from forward to reverse. the offset is in the the transmission fork system. it is designed so you wont grind the gears or break your trans.