The return spring that centres the gear lever from the 1st 2nd side is still there but is now too weak to do the job. The other side (5th to centre) is still fine. I just had a good look at them and they are both still there. The question is, can you replace these? There is a screw about 2 cm back from the springs on the gearbox casing which might hold the spring assembly in. Has anyone replaced these? Do you know the part number? :?
If you've got a standard R380 'box then yes, it's possible to replace the spring.
First you need to gain access to the big roll pin upon which the spring sits. It's possible to do this easily in a Defender, but I suspect that in a Disco you'll have to dismantle the centre console to a greater or lesser degree.
First unhook the spring on either side of the bias adjustment screws (leave them alone if your gear lever centres itself okay) so that you have released the spring tension.
Then using a suitably sized drift and a not-too-big hammer, gently drift the roll pin out. It comes out quite easily - or it did in my case.
The springs then just lifts off and refitting is quite simply the reverse.
You can get the spring and the roll pin as spares, and I'd advise getting both, just in case you damage the roll pin.
Oh, and you'll suddenly find your left arm feels weak for the next week or two until you build the muscles - those springs are strong :)
