[Andy69]

As BBBaker said, check the external linkage rods. Had a 70 Nova with a 4-speed and had the same thing happen. Turned out the the shift rods were worn out where they connect to the trans and the rods were actually rubbing against each other and allowing the trans to engage 2 gears at the same time. I had someone weld-up the grooves that were worn into the rods then ground them down until everything was even then installed new bushings and clips and used some AN washers to make sure there was no more slop in the linkage. Also make sure the rods are adjusted properly-- there is an alignment hole in the Hurst linkage that you insert a pin then adjust the linkage to make sure they are aligned properly. Worked for me and the trans never shifted better and no more lock-ups. You can probably get the instructions from Hurst on how to adjust the linkage by going to their website.

Interesting. I had a 70 Nova in college back in 1987. I bought it for $75 for a winter beater. The guy I bought it from told me I had to be very careful shjifting or I would jam the shifter. He showed me how to unjam it by climbing under the car and messing with the shifter. I really got it stuck once and we couldn't get it loose. It also wouldn't move anywhere in first. I always thought I broke the tranny. Thanks for solving an 18 year old mystery!

Cheers,
Andy