The gear shift works very hard, particularly since I adjusted the brake. Does the brake adjustment effect the gear shift? If so, is it as simple as readjusting the brake? If not, how do I get the gear shift to move more freely? Thanks!

Hi,
Back off on the brake adjustment about a quarter turn. The brake is engaging while the belt is still tensioned and trying to turn the input pulley. This in turn exerts pressure on the shift keys causing the symptom described. Back off and test until the problem goes away.
Peace,
Clarke