Okay I was looking at the linkage today, and the bracket for the linkage is loose. Looks like it's missing a bushing or spacer on one of the bolts. Both U clips are still there but the cable seems a bit loose by itself.

Also, I have alot of play in the gear selector on the transmission. I can move it about 3/8-1/2 inch front to back and up and down. I played with the selector on my junk transmission and there is virtually no play at all.

I know this can make it pop out of gear, so I have to hit the junkyard tomorrow and grab the bolts for the mount. But the selector, however, I'm not sure what to do about that. Is there a way to fix that?

EDIT: The bushing on the end of the shifter cable at the transmission was junk, too. I was able to pull the center sleeve out with my hand, and the rubber was barely connected. I'll be replacing both of them with skateboard bearings to take care of that.