There are 2 centering springs and one would be overstretched (in tension) in the 1st or 2nd gear position which leads to the fatigue. I agree that it happens under tension, not compression, but it does happen if a vehicle is in long-term storage. I've seen it 1st hand on several manual...
This may sound crazy but I actually set the brake and put mine in 3rd. I do this so I don't put the tensioning spring under load when parked/stored. I've seen these wear out where the shifter won't center itself as it is designed to do.
Battery Terminal? (Solution)
This weekend I hooked up the "Battery Tender" trickle charger with the quick connect. I had the same theory on the terminal mount (plastic mounts) not being conductive. I was pleasantly surprised when I tested with my Volt Meter. I got the same voltage (~12) across...
Purchased 50 Year Limited Edition, Wimbledon White, #351 on 12-5-14
I purchased my 50 Year Limited Edition, Wimbledon White, #351 on 12-5-14 from Bill Brown Ford (Livonia MI). The car was delivered to Kowalski Ford (Avon Lake OH). I live outside of Cleveland.
What an AWESOME piece of...