My 2002 Dakota used to shift so well, then suddenly the travel of the shifter is ridiculous. I have to pull the shifter all the way down against the seat to shift into reverse. All other gears seems to have problems as well. Whereas I used to be able to shift into all the gears in a circle of about 8-10", I now have to move the shifter twice as far to get in gear. Does anyone know what the problem could be?

 

what engine and transmission?

 

Welcome to the forum kwlnwv!

This would help.

I'm guessing it's the NV3500. There is a ball cup in the shifter assembly. Sounds like it's broken/worn.

 

Im guessing you need one of these http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/361171797195?lpid=82&chn=ps

If you look at this Pic you will see why http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/321027537590?lpid=82&chn=ps

 

Pull the shifter off and take a look see if this may be the problem.

 

Sorry! 3.9 engine with 5 speed manual transmission .

 

I thought that might be the case, but have not yet begun to look at it. I just wasn't't even certain if the shifter was constructed with the ball and socket type. I am in the process of selling the truck, and this problem presented itself.

 

Thank you to everyone who posted . All of you were very helpful.