9n shifter problem

[edw.p24]

I recently purchased a 1942 9n knowing nothing about tractors and little about mechanics in general. Shortly after buying and a little use, the shifter lever started moving up and down in the socket. As I inspected it, I saw a small pin in the base of the shifter where it goes into the housing. The pin is in a round recess that I would guess holds a ball or bearing with a hole to receive the pin and hold the whole lever into place. Since the dust cover/boot is either wrong or installed wrong, I am guessing the ball/bearing fell out and is gone forever. I have a new boot on the way, but how do I replace this ball or whatever to fix the problem? Or am I just completely wrong about how the lever is held into place? I have a manual, but it is not clear. Can anybody help?

[42ford9n]

my shifter stick moves up and down too. but it works fine and i think its supposed to move up and down a little bit. as long as you cant pull it out i think you are fine. I've used my 42 ford 9n tractor since i was 10 and they are a joy.