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My column shifter is hanging in first gear several times in short trips now. The handle is also about to rip out of the column. It is time to look at my options quickly. I have a 3-speed light duty manual. I also have manual steering.
-Will a 73-79 column be a direct boltup? I think it would as long as its from a manual steering truck just need reasurance. I can handle the minor rewire.
-Do some of the toploader fourspeeds have the same length as my 3speed.
-If I find a truck with the fourspeed what other parts do I need to grab.
-Does anyone know of an online chart for ford tailshaft lengths.
I realize I could swap in just about any transmission with driveshaft work but I only want this down a day. I also know I could convert to an aftermarket floorshifter but I could get a column or a junkyard toploader cheaper. I really would like to use this as an opportunity to gain a granny gear if possible without driveshaft shortening.
The usual cause for hanging up in gear, is worn bushings on the two levers at the bottom of the steering column...where the shift linkage attaches. Replace the bushings, problem should cease.
1-C5TZ-7343-A Bushing and Insulator Kit, shift levers on s/column.
In addition, you may need a new shift (lever) collar: C0DZ-7228-B
Regardless of what column you use, they will all have these problems.
Thanks for the replies so far. I have checked the cab mounts they look great. Thanks to being armed with the part number I found the bushing and insulator kit. What kind of tool or trick do I use to install those things as far as rolling the end of the bushing over. The bushings should get me going till I find a good NP435.