MG Car Repair: Midget 1500 Shift Lever pops out - Reverse Only, gear lever, shift lever

Question
Trying to figure out how to fix this....When I pull up to move into reverse, very often the entire lever pulls too far out.  I can re-seat it, but want to get to the root of the problem..'75 Midget.  Thanks,  Dan

Answer
Hi Dan.  Sounds like a worn bush at the base of the gear lever.  

Copy this link into your browser, and check out part #56 in the exploded diagram:

http://www.mossmotors.com/Shop/ViewProducts.aspx?PlateIndexID=29288#top

You will need to rotate and remove the retaining cup (part # 55) to release the lever.  

I thought there was a large spring under the cup, but it is not shown in the diagram.  
On earlier cars they sometimes wear out, or they are missing, and this would give a similar symptom.