Tearing off the shift housing above the spare tire and below the shifter
yesterday, I discovered a broken part. According to Benetley it's a shift
stop. One, on the passenger's side, is an welded-on "rail" that appears to
be where the shift linkage slides against when going from first to second.
On the driver's side, is a bolt-on aluminum piece that appears to do the
same thing. My little piece is broken off, leaving just about 1/3 of it
sticking out as a nub. Now I've always seemed to shift just fine between
third and fourth. Mechanic said he's never seen one broken, and doesn't
think it's worth fixing, especially since it isn't an available part (part
no. 251 711 176).

Anyone know whether this thing is important, or should I just leave well
enough alone? (which is my preference).

Thanks!

--
Steve Sullivan
Mount Vernon, Washington

Calvin, the mischievous 84 Westy
Hobbes, the imaginary Westy Syncro