When my Dear ol Mam had. a brand new Pinewood Green Viva 90 in June 1967: the gearlever came off in her hand twice, fixed under warrantee.
Mine did likewise Friday en route home from a vehicle meet,Further investigations in the light of day, carpet up gearnob and rubbber grummit off, there was a bit of mangled metal lock ring loose which after the rebuilt -built engine was in situ also last year , had found second obstinate.
Got it back together Saturday after getting home via relay 02.00 but needs the gearbox dropped to check the rear and went to a Cars and Coffee, at Maldon, young woman came over saying she had just aquired a v rare HA SL90, nice chat , had to change my carb top as the Olive union was dripping , reset timing as to electronic ignition and reset idle and throttle screws.
Now runing fine but being very carefull with gearchanging.