Technical 1972 fiat 500L 1972 Stuck in gear

[bradders61]

Hi I have just purchased a 1972 Fiat 500L that has been garaged for 8 years it has done 55.000 miles but I have been told it had a new gearbox fitted not long before it was garaged, it appears to be stuck in gear i have tried disconecting the linkage where it enters the gearbox and i can move the rod into the gearbox but it still stays in gear all the time has anybody come accross this before?
It is my intention to do a full restoration on it, i have never tackled a car before only motorbikes, the under floor and engine compartment are painted White/cream was this normal on this model (it is Coral Red)
Would be gratefull for any advice
Thanks Bradders

 

[oopsadaisy]

Hello and welcome to the forum.

Basically these cars are very simple, and most problems can be overcome.

Just to clarify, are you saying that when the gear lever linkage is connected you cannot move it, but when it is discconected you can select the gears by moving the gearbox rods directly?

As regards the paint job on the underside, it may be a case of somebody trying to hide something.... I must admit I have never seen one painted white.

However, is it normal? Believe me there is no such thing as 'normal' with these little cars!

Keep us posted!

 

[bradders61]

Thanks for that will put some pictures on when i work out how to do it