Is there a trick to putting the cover back on a 4speed out of a 70 road runner.
I know about the shift forks and had no problem with them. However now I can't get it in reverse.
There has to some trick with the reverse. Checked the shop manual and I understand the concept.
One article I read on line says " with up ward pressure hold the cover and put it in reverse, then put the four corners bolts in" So how does the reverse mesh with the other shift assemblies?
Thanks for any help.

The reverse lever is cast into the case, not the side cover so I don't see what reverse had to do with it other than maybe get it out of the way. Anyhow, try turning either the input or output while trying to put it in reverse - chance are its just hitting a tooth which won't allow it to engage.

Yes it isn't part of the cover but the reverse lever interacts with the rear shift lever on the cover.

Typical problem, loosen the bolts, put it in reverse then slightly pry up on the cover from the bottom while retightening the bolts. There is an interlock of sorts built into the trans between reverse and the 1/2 lever to keep the trans from going into reverse if the 1-2 in not in the neutral position.

Thanks John it makes sense now.