Thanks for the advice Buckle. The problem is now sorted. The top shaft had corroded and seized in position as you said it might. A bit of gentle persuasion with a copper drift and WD40 got it moving again, and a fresh dose of grease should keep it free. Thanks again.

Thanks for the advice loony larry. I have tried to select high range before the tunnel was removed with the spring in its correct place, so I think the problem may be a bit more than that!

I recently purchased a series 3 diesel. The problem i have is that its stuck in fourwheel drive in high range. When i drop it into neutral and try to select high range again i can't unless i press the yellow lever however this means i am in 4wd. Not good for tyre wear and winding the...