Check the "bell crank" they strip out alot and sometimes just loosen up.They are the alluminum arms that the shift rods hook to on the tranny.They are splined and do cause trouble when they wear.

 

maybe the motor is idling too high,you can set it down by the idling screw on the carburator side.

 

After you get used to this it really isn't a big deal. Just make sure that you return to idle..... even engage either brake to be sure that the tranny/clutch isn't spinning. Then engage the shift button and shift Let go of button. HERE IS THE TRICKY PART: when you have it in your new position, engage that shift button again. is it sloppy? I mean, does it feel like there is a heavy spring in contact with the button at all times? if it doesn't, then shift it out of that position and rock the machine a little side to side and shift back. again check the button to be sure that it is "in gear". If it isn't, you'll start grinding as soon as you start to put the machine under load.

The newer systems are better, although that system isn't that bad when you get used to it. Thank god for evolution [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]