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73-87 Chevy _ GMC Trucks => Engine/Drivetrain => Topic started by: got2haul on November 22, 2008, 10:13:45 pm

Title: Moving a 3-speed column shift to the floor
Post by: got2haul on November 22, 2008, 10:13:45 pm

(I tried to search on this topic but kept getting an error)

I'm considering buying a 1975 short bed with a 3-speed column shift.  I'd like to know what's involved in moving the shifter from the column to the floor.  If this has been addressed in an earlier thread, please point me to the thread, and thanks.

Title: Re: Moving a 3-speed column shift to the floor
Post by: Blazin on November 23, 2008, 02:08:04 am

Most auto parts stores either have or can get a universal floor shifter for our trucks do switch it. Problem is they are not much better than the worn out column shifter brand new. I would replace the bushings etc. in the column shifter before changing it.

Title: Re: Moving a 3-speed column shift to the floor
Post by: zieg85 on November 23, 2008, 08:08:38 am

Yes and thousand times yes.  All the aftermarket shifters I have tried over the years are junk...

Title: Re: Moving a 3-speed column shift to the floor
Post by: VileZambonie on November 23, 2008, 08:16:29 am

I've used Hurst shifters and never had a problem.

http://store.summitracing.com/partdetail.asp?autofilter=1&part=HUU%2D5010016&N=700+115&autoview=sku

Title: Re: Moving a 3-speed column shift to the floor
Post by: got2haul on November 23, 2008, 11:24:27 am

So, based on the replies so far, it's as simple as:

1.  Cut a hole in the floor in the appropriate position over the trans.
2.  Disconnect the column shift linkage.
3.  Choose Hurst and install the new floor shifter.

Is that it?

Title: Re: Moving a 3-speed column shift to the floor
Post by: 78BBSTEPSIDE on November 23, 2008, 11:31:02 am

I would replace the three speed column with a column from a four speed for appearance purposes

Title: Re: Moving a 3-speed column shift to the floor
Post by: Dragon on November 23, 2008, 12:00:27 pm

Quote from: VileZambonie on November 23, 2008, 08:16:29 am

I've used Hurst shifters and never had a problem.

http://store.summitracing.com/partdetail.asp?autofilter=1&part=HUU%2D5010016&N=700+115&autoview=sku

+1 I have used and sold enough of the "Universal" manual/automatic floor shifters(Mr Gasket/Spectre/B&M/Mooneyes/Etc,  to say that they are junk compared to the Direct-fit Hurst/B&M/TCI/etc shifters... You definately get what you paid for, but at the same time they can be improve apon, if you know what to do( a few come with plastic or "pop metal"bushings/etc, and they should be replaced with brass pieces... They are other ways to improve as well.)...

Title: Re: Moving a 3-speed column shift to the floor
Post by: SUX2BU99 on November 25, 2008, 01:50:44 pm

Very interesting. I was planning to buy a Megashifter in just a week or two. No good?

Title: Re: Moving a 3-speed column shift to the floor
Post by: zieg85 on November 25, 2008, 02:06:44 pm

Quote from: VileZambonie on November 23, 2008, 08:16:29 am

I've used Hurst shifters and never had a problem.
http://store.summitracing.com/partdetail.asp?autofilter=1&part=HUU%2D5010016&N=700+115&autoview=sku

Guess I never used a good aftermarket one.  I always found rebuilding the column a better way to go but that is just me...

Title: Re: Moving a 3-speed column shift to the floor
Post by: Captkaos on November 25, 2008, 03:08:46 pm

I think they are speaking about manual specifically.  I have to agree.  Univeral is bad, specific application is good.  I have used Hurst in the past.

BTW, good luck finding a 4 speed column (at least around here)

Title: Re: Moving a 3-speed column shift to the floor
Post by: zieg85 on November 25, 2008, 06:13:26 pm

Quote from: Captkaos on November 25, 2008, 03:08:46 pm

I think they are speaking about manual specifically.  I have to agree.  Univeral is bad, specific application is good.  I have used Hurst in the past.

BTW, good luck finding a 4 speed column (at least around here)

I know of several 4 speed, what I couldn't find was a 3 speed manual for my 86.  They just don't exist.  Mine was trashed, just not worn out.