Abstract: Transmission shift control guide and detent apparatus includes a mechanism for defining the shift path for any given gear change, and for providing detenting both for ratio selection and for engagement of the selected gear set. A guide plate defines a predetermined track. A pin associated with the transmission shift lever is movable along this track to establish a precise definition of the path for each selecting and engaging movement. The plate also defines a plurality of depressions which form a detent map. A spring-loaded ball is moved over this map by the action of the transmission shift lever. This develops predetermined resistive forces against which the shift lever must be moved during the selecting and engaging movements. Stresses are absorbed in the guide plate rather than in the shift rail.