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I just got my car back together today and drove it for the first time. And one thing I've noticed is while in gear the shifter has alot of play. Like in 5th I can easily wiggle it back and forth far enough that it appears to be in 3rd or clost to 1st. Obviously it won't shift gears like that but I've never driving a manual that the shifter moved that freely while in gear

My condolences...You have Sloppy Shifter Syndrome (SSS). The good news is, there is a cure. Click here for your prescription:
http://www.atlantamx3.com/mocaforum/vie ... php?t=2317

You will want to read the **note areas as I suspect all your bushings are shot. There are 2 sets one at the joint of the shifter and shift linkage and one at the transmission and shift linkage. You don't have to replace the third link bushing, but sometimes after replacing the 2 sets, you still have a loose shifter...so at least look at it or try to jiggle it around to see if its loose. Bushings are sold at the Mazda Dealership...I have never seen a parts store carry them.

even better use the SRD Bronzoil bushings as well as the extension rod bracket bushing. They are all on Corksport!

I have seen this problem all too many times. I will never see it again in my car since I got the SRD bronzoil shifter bushings, 3rd link bushings, and extension rod bushing as well a a B&M short shifter. I assure you that those parts will fix your problem

Yes, but so will the much cheeper factory bushings.