that tab shown in my picture can get "outside" of the forks rather easily. then the shaft will move around as you describe when you move the column lever - but not move the shifter rods because it isnt engaged with the forks any longer. you have to disconnect the coupler to the shaft running up the steering column, then pull the shaft on the linkage box up and get the tab back in line with the forks. then reassemble. it is harder to describe this in words than it is to actually do. if there is no grease in the box it will be obvious. looking at Bill's (squeeze) pictures may clarify it for you as well.
