Knackered Gearbox?

[nobbyfox]

I am after some advice/help.
Friends of mine have a Westy California (1989 JX Diesel) and the gearbox is not functioning properly.
Only can get 2nd gear and is currently residing in a school car park after its recovery from a roundabout.
My question, is this gearbox gone to the great maker in the sky or is it a selector issue?
If it needs another one can anyone recommend a good VW mechanic in the South London/North Surrey area?

Thank you. Fingers crossed you lovely people will have the answer.

[Ian Hulley]

Disconnect the linkage .... can you select the gears by hand by using the lever ? (Engine off obviously for the hard-of-thinking)

Ian

[nobbyfox]

The Camper is owned by 2 ladies who have no mechanical knowledge at all. I have not seen it yet.
Probably need a mechanic to have a look!

Thanks for the reply though

[bradders89]

I recently bought a recon box from aidan talbot. Really helpfull and quick delivery. He is on here somewhere if it happends to be worst case.

[Ralf85]

Don't know about diesel set up, but I had a similar problem a couple of years ago with my DF engine van. It turned out to be the nylon 'golf ball' sized unit at the base of the gear stick. They wear out. Once replaced the gear change was back to normal and was far better than ever before. So I should start at the gearstick and move along the linkage.

Let us know what happens.

[nobbyfox]

Thanks all for the reply. The owners are trying to get in contact with their mechanic (VW) but not had any luck so far.
I do hope it is the linkage as its the easier option or will try and get a replacement from Aidan (thanks Bradders)

[nobbyfox]

It's fixed!!
The AA were called who diagnosed that 2 bolts had come loose from the gearbox causing it to drop and jam the selector.
Definitely the cheaper option.