Topic: 96 4Runner 5 speed pops out of 1st

[norcalvp]

Over the last year my 96 4Runner has started to pop out of first on ocasion. It doesn't happen every time, or even often. But when it does it usually lets go with a loud bang. Then i can just put it back in first and it goes with no problems...  This only happens when my hand isn't on the shifter. Is there a detent ball that i should check out? what makes it stay in gear?

Thanks
Steve

[reklund5]

The plastic shifter seat and bushing are most likely shot.  I see this all the time at work, usually AFTER a transmission shop has told the customer that they need a new synchro or somethign stupid.  Basically, if these parts are worn, they won't cause the slider to engage fully on the hub, and it pops out of gear.  Usually first gear, but sometimes 3rd and reverse too...    They're cheap and easy to replace.

Check this out:     http://www.marlincrawler.com/htm/transmission/trans_parts.htm

Ryan