Shift lever modification

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Nov 9, 2012 | 01:55 PM

52' fordnut

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From: Corbin, Ky

Shift lever modification

Hello,

I'm rebuilding a 52' Ford pickup and I am using a M5R2 5 speed transmission behind my 302. I am wanting to change the awkward modern slant gear shift lever for something a little more vintage. Has anyone ever done this before? I am wanting to just use some thick round stock and paint it black. Any ideas, suggestions, concerns?

Thanks as always!

Jon Preston

Nov 9, 2012 | 02:37 PM

Mervy49

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From: Moyie, BC Canada

Can your lever be heated up and bent to your desired shape?

Nov 9, 2012 | 02:42 PM

52' fordnut

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From: Corbin, Ky

I would say it could be, but I'm sort of wanting to do away with the shift lever and get one that's not as modern looking. I want it to Kind of look like the original when people look inside of the truck.

Thanks again,

Jon Preston

Nov 9, 2012 | 03:06 PM

The Horvaths

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Time to go see the local blacksmith!

Actually, I forge a little myself. You could check to see if there's a blacksmiths' club in your area, or, just heat and bend and weld away to your heart's desire.

Nov 9, 2012 | 05:08 PM

rhopper

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Mar 2005

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From: peyton, colorado

Sounds like heating and bending is the solution. I used electrical conduit for my shifter. I don't have a tubing bender, so I heated an inch or so at a time and bent it just alittle. For the tapered section that the **** sits on, I used part of the s10 shift lever I had, cut and welded to the conduit.