I got the column back in and it seems to shift through all of the gears. I haven't driven it. The shifter is still wobbly but it's clear that the housing is worn out. I will try to find a replacement housing but now I'm afraid that I'll end up with the wrong one since everything seems to be for the 65 and later trucks.

I think it's strange the way it all goes together. The column is really only held in place by the clamp that holds it to the dash. I positioned it high (towards the steering wheel) and didn't tighten it all the way. That way when I installed the steering wheel it pulled everything together nice and tight. then I tightened the clamp down all the way so now I can disassemble the upper parts and when I put it back together it is all nice and tight. If the column is too far down (away from the steering wheel) then the nylon sleeve doesn't push into the bearing and the steering column and wheel can wobble around after you put it all together.

I wish I'd known more about it before I ordered parts. I spent about $70 on stuff when I only needed about $20 worth of stuff. Oh well. Now I know.

Bill, I think I speak for many members when I say that you have been a huge help here. Thank you for sharing your time and resources like you do.

 

Which part are you calling the housing...the shift collar (aka 'socket')?

If so...

D5TZ-7228-B (replaced C0DZ-7228-B & D3TZ-7228-B) .. 3 M/T Shift Collar / Obsolete ~ 100's available NOS from multiple sources.

1960/65 Falcon/Comet / 1961/77 F100/250 / 1962/65 Fairlane / 1966/77 Bronco.

HAVEN FORD in Haven KS has 1 = 620465-2252.

BOWMAN SALES & SERVICE in Bowman ND has 2 = 701-523-3257.

GREEN SALES CO. in Cincinnati OH has 3 = 800-543-4959.

NOS PARTS LTD in Waxahachie TX has 12 = 972-937-2201.

 

Yes. The shift collar . I have ordered it along with both styles of the shifter insulator. I'll have to paint the shift collar but I can tell it is going to be so much better.

 

You're too quick in responding, beating my two finger typing.

See edited post 17.