I recently discovered something while (briefly) driving my car the other day. On the normal 4-speed shift pattern, I can only shift the transmission into 1st and 3rd gears, as well as Neutral and Reverse. I can't shift the car into 2nd and 4th gears. I pull the shift lever back as far as I can, and it does not quite reach back far enough for it to pop into those gears.

What parts are suspect on the shifter box that I would need to replace to remedy this problem? Thanks!

EDIT: I forgot to mention, my car has the remote-operated rod change unit.

 

so it's a rod shifter and you can only get into 1st and 3rd...sounds like the mounting points might be a little off. Just a thought.

 

As you've swapped an auto for a 4 speed, is there any body modification?alignment issue that you may have missed? I've never done the swap so know little about it. I'd check with more experienced Mini guys at Minimania.com. Rod changes are pretty simple and there's not much to wear. What about the roll pin connector from rod to trans rod?

 

It was a straight swap as best as I can tell, with no modifications done to the chassis whatsoever. The shifter unit has two large rubber-mounted studs at the rear, and is suspended from the front by the two rods. The upper rod is securely fastened to the case of the transmission, and the lower rod is securely held by the two pins that pass through it. I'm going to call the vendor in England and ask him about that as well as some other questions regarding the engine...

 

The upper rod is the mount for the shifter mechanism. The lower rod is the shifter rod. The coupler is held by with split pins. This can wear and cause looseness. Worth a check.

Are you sure the shift lever is not hitting the floor at the rear of the opening since its 2nd & 4th you are having issues with?