My father and I are having a disagreement and need some wisdom...

We have the stock 3 speed transmission with the column shift ("three on the tree"). On the actual lever that you shift, it has a bend in it just as it enters the column. Which way is the bend suppose to face? Does the shift lever bend towards the steering wheel or away from it?

Right now we have it bending towards the steering wheel but it does seem that the small end ball does come close to the steering wheel in first gear and fat fingers turning the steering wheel can get caught between the wheel and the end of the shifter.

Thanks for any input,
Fred

 

Just checked on my 52 and the bend is away from the steering wheel.

Take a look at the picture. You can see the bend. I can also check my 51, but that won't be until tomorrow or in the next few days.

 

Mine bends towards the wheel.... but it looks just like yours, Panelman. The bend in the shifter itself brings it back towards the wheel, but in neutral, the shifter as a whole is pointing towards the dash, being spring-loaded that way.

 

Hmmm... intresting. Mine was probably "worked on" by the prior owner. I'll have to check the 51. I know that it hasn't been touched as the truck is all original. I also have another steering column with the shifter in my parts pile. I'll check it as well if I can get to it.

 

Just checked the column on the stock truck . The bend is towards the steering wheel .This column is unmolested so think it would be safe to say this is correct .

 

Mine bends towards the wheel

 

Now that I'm re-reading this post, the shift lever in my 52 is bending towards the steering wheel. I think I misunderstood the original question.

 

I wondered, because mine looks just like the pic you posted! I'm curious about the screw used for a pivot, tho; how well does it work?

 

I thought that the original post was referring to the bend itself in the metal.

It's not a screw. It's a bolt with a small dome top. There's a nut with a lock washer on the other end.

 

I just want to brag for a minute.... with FACTS.

 

The "facts" confirm that mine is mounted correctly. Very helpful. Thanks, Havi.

 

Team:

Thanks for all of the info! Very helpful. Looks like we have the shift lever installed correctly.

I guess I will have to tell my Dad either to work on "thinner" fingers or to try a different technique while turning the steering wheel while in first gear!

Best to you all in 2011...

Fred

 

It could be that your linkage is worn at the bottom of the column, or the ball on the end of the lever. Mine doesn't really get that close to the wheel.

 

Sorry. don't want to sabotage your thread but need similar help with my stock 3sp column shifter. I was going to get some rebuild parts but prior to dismantling any further I wanted to know the techniques or whether any special tools might be needed to refit them.

The parts are the bushing at the base of the actual column shift lever. Seems to be held in place by a pin. Does this drill out etc etc??

ALSO.

The bushings on the shift linkages that have rubbers encased in brass washers. When refitted, what holds them in place. how do you refit?

Any help would be greatly received as it is finally sunny here in England and I want to get it all rebuilt and cruise :-)))