Adjusting shifter linkage

I'm asking this question for two reasons:

A) I need to make an adjustment on a stock FJ600 and,

B) I will be installing CB400F "rear sets" on my CB500 soon.

They both have a similar linkage and I need to know how to properly adjust it.

The FJ has some hard shifting issues and I need to adjust the clutch and the shifter. The shifter is very loose on the shaft and has some free-play before it starts moving the splined shifter on the shift rod. I'd say it has at least a 1/4 inch of movement up or down before everything is tight and the shifting action actually happens.
I would think there should be no free play and the linkage should be direct and solid. Am I right?

What's the proper procedure to set up a shift linkage? How much "slop", if any, should there be between the shifter and the shift arm?

Here are some pics. The FJ is first and the CB400F pegs are next.



BTW, I know you loosen the lock nut(s) and adjust the threaded rod. I'm asking more about the proper amount of slack, or lack thereof, that is supposed to be in the shifter/linkage.

 

the slop most likely comes from the first pivot with the c-clip on it, not much you can do about it, grease it up and live with it

 

PM me with your email address and I'll send you a scan of the shifter adjustment diagram from my FJ600 references.

Polock is right; if the slop is due to wear in the lever on the pivot stub (where the c-clip is) or the stub itself, there's not much you can do about it except replace both parts.