won't shift into 1st or 2nd

[porter1978]

I have a 97 SC2 manual and it will not shift into 1st or 2nd. It seem as if for some reason the shifter itself will not go far enough left to get there. Also in 5th gear the shifter is straight up and down, not off to the right like normal. Any help?

[Cat Fuzz]

Get under the console and check your shifter cable retainers.

[RC1488]

+1. Many times, the shifter bushing breaks. new ones can be found on Ebay now

[porter1978]

I actually found the problem today. I have a broken retainer ring on the cable mount on the tranny. A new 'C' ring should do the trick. Any thoughts on finding the Saturn part #?

[RC1488]

Not sure of the part number. Saturnparts.com is a online dealer. Rock auto may have it also.