300zx trans in 280z help

[tymarbry]

Ive recently picked up a 86' 300zx non-turbo trans (5speed) nd I have the 77' 280z bellhousing on it. but with the bellhousing on it will not shift into any gears except 5th (Possibly reverse if its a dogleg or whatever they call it).

So what could be a problem? The shift rods clear the rod holes in the bellhousing and everything. but it wont shift. with the bellhousing off though, it shifts fairly well.

any help would be great as I need this car running for going to work.

[Zed Head]

Do the input and output shafts move after the bellhousing is on?

And are you putting the trans. in to 3rd or 4th gear when you install the bellhousing? If you don't, the 1-2 and 3-4 shift rods will move in to gear at the same time as you slide the bellhousing on, locking things up. Try putting the 3-4 rod in to 3rd gear before installing the bell-housing. Once it's on, you can install the shifter and pull it back to neutral.

[tymarbry]

ahhh im so stupid yeah i forgot about locking the gears in place when placing the bell on... ill try it and get back if bad news. thanks