Intermittent Gear Selection Issue.....

[Oldman]

Take the nose cone off the transmission. there is a bracket that holds the jockey stick ball that cracks and brakes and allows movement which might be responsible for your problem.
you can see in the photo where I've put a gussit in the corner of a replacement bracket when rebuilding my trans to prevent this as the original was cracked but not loose.

Hey Rick, slid under and had another good look around today......
If you could answer a few of questions before I start, I'd greatly appreciate your input.

1. Can I remove the nose cone with engine/transmission in place ?
    I'd be putting the bus on stands, working underneath and supporting the gearbox before starting.
    
2. Will there be much Transmission fluid loss ?
    ie. Will I need a catch can ready once I've cracked the nose cone bolts ?
         Or would it be better to drain the gearbox first ?

3. Is the, (potentially cracked), bracket alloy or steel ?
    My welder's capabilities are limited to steel/stainless. 
Any advice , greatly appreciated......