Gears are acting up...

[Peer]

Oh boy, this won't be a 'happy new year' -- when driving home tonight I suddenly couldn't get my '98 Box into 5th gear... and then, shortly after, I realize that I only have 2nd and 4th -- no 1st, no 3rd, and no reverse. The shifter is also "loose", vertically. As always, any help appreciated.

-- peer

[RFM]

Probably just, a loose or broken gearshift cable(s), take a look under the car while a helper operate the shifter, this will make more clear. Use the side search function, there are certainly examples of this problem to be found in 986 and 996 forum.

[Peer]

Probably just, a loose or broken gearshift cable(s), [...]

Use the side search function, there are certainly examples of this problem

Thanks for replying. Tomorrow my buddy and I gonna try to figure it out. And yes, I've tried the search feature of this forum, but to no prevail.

-- peer

[harryrcb]

there are 2 places you want to check, the outer cable by the gearbox have a retaining clip to hold it in place , the frequently come off, or sometimes the inner cable has a ball/socket setup that may come loose but not likely or as the moderator said you might have a broken cable

[Peer]

I just found the culprit; a broken shift rod (see picture below). But I have no idea how to replace it -- I don't even know how to get it off (looks like it's crush pressed) and probably need a special tool..? Again, any help appreciated (and if you're in the Redwood City, CA neighborhood and would like to help me, I'll happily treat you for a fancy dinner ;^)

-- peer

[RFM]

They can be subtracted using a fork (preferably) or two screwdrivers. It is important to know way the rod is broken to prevent recurrence.