MANUAL TRANS. SHIFTING EFFORT REPLACE SHIFT CONTROL LINKAGE. Pontiac Optima (Canada) 1989

For 1990-2009 cars

# MANUAL TRANS. SHIFTING EFFORT REPLACE SHIFT CONTROL LINKAGE

#### Models Affected: 1988-89 LEMANS W/1.6 AND MANUAL TRANSMISSION

Some of the subject vehicles may exhibit increased movement of shift control linkage resulting in gear selection difficulties and/or higher than normal shifting efforts into first, second or fifth gears.

A new P/N 90342949, linkage gear shift control, is available that has reduced compliance at the joints.

Part is currently available from GMSPO.

Corrective action for the described condition is to replace the shift control linkage and delete the fifth gear shift detent (5 speed only) following the procedures described and referencing the 1989 Service Manual.

#### Procedure:

1. Disconnect battery.

2. Install a 3/16" pin in the transmission (refer to page 7B1-10, Figure 8). This will lock the transmission in neutral in the 1-2 shift location.

3. Loosen the shift rod clamp bolt (refer to page 7B1-10, Figure 9).

4. Raise the gearshift boot at the shifter.

5. Pull shifter rearward to disconnect shift rod from linkage (at loosened clamp bolt).

6. Remove fifth gear detent from shifter (refer 7B1-5, Figure 4 - item 243) (if equipped).

7. Lubricate shift tube (refer 7B1-5, Figure 4 - item 241) at boot and bearing (items 240 and 241) using grease meeting GM 6031M requirements (GM P/N 1052492 or equivalent).

8. Remove the shift control linkage by removing pins 237 and 239 shown in Figure 21, page 7B2-13.

9. Install new shift linkage assembly. Ensure that the plastic boots (part of assembly) are aligned with the rods.

10. Following the shift linkage adjustment procedures (refer to page 7B1-10) adjust the linkage, tighten rod clamp bolt, remove 3/16 locking pin from transmission and install plug; test shifting mechanism.

Labor Operation Number: K1120

Labor Time : .8 Hour

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.