Stuck in reverse?

Tiny
BLACKCLOUD22
  • MEMBER
  • 2010 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE
  • 5.3L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 230,000 MILES
On the way home last night during a thunderstorm, I hit some high water. Two miles later, we got to the apartment complex where I was able to shift into reverse to get into a spot. Now the shift lever moves freely but has no effect on the ability to change gears. There is no pressure or resistance when cycling the shift lever. Also, since the truck is in reverse, I cannot start it.
Sunday, June 18th, 2023 AT 9:09 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,101 POSTS
Hi,

Does the gear indicator show the correct gear when shifting? Also, you mentioned there is no resistance when shifting. Do you mean it feels the same as always or does it feel loose?

I attached a pic below. It shows the transmission cable and where it attaches to the transmission. Make sure nothing came disconnected.

Also, let me know how deep the water you went through was and if you checked the fluid to make sure no water got into the transmission.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
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Sunday, June 18th, 2023 AT 10:28 PM
Tiny
BLACKCLOUD22
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Joe, thank you for responding to my question.

The original inquiry was posted the very night of the incident. I will attempt to be more specific and clear in the future. To directly answer your question, "Do you mean it feels the same as always or does it feel loose?" There was no resistance when cycling the gear shift lever, as in unimpeded, loose as a goose, unburdened, disencumbered, unhampered, or freed.

The following day I was able to get under the truck, and as illustrated in the much-appreciated picture, the plastic bushing had been broken, and the gear shift cable was no longer attached to the transmission. Thus, the free feeling when cycling through the gears.

Thanks to my eldest son coming over today, he was able to replace the lower cable. I also have a new upper, which I will replace in the future.

Thank you again for your help.

BlackCloud22
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Monday, June 19th, 2023 AT 10:14 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,101 POSTS
Hi,

I had a feeling that was what you meant and what happened. Regardless, I'm glad to know you found the issue and got it taken care of.

Feel free to come back anytime in the future.

Take care,

Joe
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Tuesday, June 20th, 2023 AT 7:53 PM

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