Super sloppy shift linkage on my E-100.
Any trick to getting things tightened up?

 

We assume manual transmission.
Under the van, Loosen up the nuts where the long shift rods attach to the transmission levers.
Move the transmission levers to ensure they are in neutral.
Sit in the driver seat and move the shift lever to neutral.
Where the steering column meets the floor, there is a hole where you can insert a 1/4" pin. A #2 screw driver works if it has a thin handle.
Check the transmission control lever, you should not be able to shift out of neutral.
Go under the van and tighten up the two nuts connecting the long rods with the transmission levers.
Remove the 1/4" pin.
See if it is better.
If that does not solve the problem, then parts in the steering column might be worn out.

 

Perfect!
I will try it tomorrow.
Thanks for the help!!
I will let you know how it goes

 

 

You will probably have to take the parts to a machine shop to have the worn holes welded up and drilled back to the correct size. If the linkage gets worn enough the transmission will stay in first when you push the shifter to second gear. When this happens you will have to get out and move the shift linkage to neutral.

To keep this from happening, pull the shifter lever up toward you when shifting out of first, when reaching neutral, push the shifter down to align the 2nd - 3rd linkage, then shift 2nd and 3rd as normal.

 

Click on pic twice to enlarge, then use the mouse to move it around.

 

I have one of "Old Skool's" steering columns. I think it's been in my '67 for about eight years. It's a work of art. Flawless and beautiful, like a museum piece! It has shifted like fresh out of the showroom ever since.
I've thanked you before, Vic, and I'll thank you again!

- Eddie in NY

 

 

Vic, I never got to ask you... I've had your column for nearly a decade now. How do you suggest I care for it? Other than the grease fitting, what and where do you suggest I lubricate the thing? Still works perfectly!

- Eddie, Long Beach NY

 

 

No, the OldSkool column was an original Ford column rebuilt by Vic in California

 

Awesome I may need to find his info. My column definitely will need some love in the near future.

 

Vic (OldSkool) will take your old steering column, refurbish it better than it came from the factory, and can convert it to/from manual or automatic.

vlafountaine -at - socal.rr -dot- com