[3twinridges]

Before I took out the transmission, I would check your linkage. On the column shift there are numerous places for slop to occur. The shifter on the bottom of the steering column has numerous wear parts, the shifter grommets for the rods, and the shift lever studs on the trans. All that adds up, and could be keeping you from seating the shift balls completely in the indentations on the inside shifter plate. I would put it in 2nd, then remove the linkage and make sure the lever is really engaging 100% in 2nd. If not, those are simpler repairs. If your linkage is good, then I would talk to Mac and get his book. I am no mechanic either, but have rebuilt several 3 speeds and they work awesome. It’s not hard with good parts and a good direction.

JB