Column question....

[78 Chevyrado]

I have a 78 c20 with a th400 trans.  soon I'll be getting a 700r4 (OD).  I'm told I won't be able to shift it into 1st (lo) because there's something in the column that keeps the shifter from going outside of the stock PRND21 range.  Can I swap the part to my column or would it just be easier to swap in a newer column so I can get the full PRN(OD)D21 Range?  Also what years can I get an OD column out of.  I don't use manual 1st much at all, but I don't like having things I can't use.


Also if I get a newer column, how hard is it to move wiper control to the column.  I do want to keep my intermittent wipers.  Also can I use the newer column with my '78 Cruise control setup? 

I'd rather go without manual 1st gear than lose my intermittent wipers and cruise control.

[VileZambonie]

You can use the same column you have. You'll just need a new prndl gauge.

[SUX2BU99]

Yep, it's not the column that gives you the detents that you feel as you shift gears. It's the transmission that does that. If you disconnect the rod that attaches at the tranny, the shifter moves without any 'clicks' or detents at all. Just the parking lock works.

[ccz145a]

Let's not forget the pull to engage reverse, that is handled in the column. But it is correct that none of the drive gears have detents in the column.

[Captkaos]

Actually the reason some people are having issues with this is because the frame mount sits a little further back than a 3 speed auto from what I have found.

[78 Chevyrado]

That sounds like good news for my column, I really don't want to mess with it.  Thanks!

Actually the reason some people are having issues with this is because the frame mount sits a little further back than a 3 speed auto from what I have found.

Will getting those parts off of a newer truck help me out, or it is where it attaches to the frame?

[Captkaos]

Where the holes are drilled in the frame.

[SUX2BU99]

Let's not forget the pull to engage reverse, that is handled in the column. But it is correct that none of the drive gears have detents in the column.

   That's what I meant when I said "parking lock" but your explanation is much more clear.

[78 Chevyrado]

Cool, thanks fellas!

Here's a site I found about tranny swaps, Lots of great info on trans measurments, parts info, etc.
http://www.rowand.net/Shop/Tech/AutomaticOverdriveTransmissionSwap.htm