auto shifter question

[sjarrett71]

I've noticed on older vehicles that the shifter will move kind of smoothly like something has worn out, I know it does on my '72. On newer vehicles the indents are more profound and you get a better feel for the gear you are in. Is there something that can be replaced to make the indent between the gears be more distinct? Is it in the steering column or transmission?

Does anyone even know what I am talking about? Because I am confusing myself.

[Longhorn Man]

the non tilt columns in these trucks are known for havin crappy shifter parts. You can take it apart and lube it, adjust the spring at the bottom of the column, then then you'll just have a better working junk shifter.

[sjarrett71]

Point taken LHM!

Has there been a build thread for a non tilt column that addresses the issue or does anyone have pic or diagram info of the part it would take to firm up the shifter?

[spinning wheels]

I had a major worn out stock shifter. I was a PIA just to get into D.

I found Kugel Komponents. They make a shifter kit for the trucks. I went to their shop, since it is local. Wholly smokes, these guys build some amazing hot rods from the ground up. Very high dollar stuff. Funny thing is, one of the owners told me. One of their first pieces ever produced is the shifter for the 67-72 pick ups. So far, I am happy with it and I won't have to change it out when I install the 700r4.
Now, if I could only find a light socket for the fiber optic cable....

[texanidiot25]

I'm sure new trucks have detents in the column, instead of (at least with non-tilt) relying on the transmission for the detents. There's so much linkage inbetween the detents on the tranny and your hand, lots of room for play.

Also, on mine, it's a bit odd. If you pull back on it (to get it out of P) and just let go, you can move it all the way from 1st back into park with out pulling back on it most of the time. But, if you push it back towards the dash, it returns to the reverse lock-out detent.

Needless to say, my 1st time rolling and giving the truck a little rev was almost embarissing when the shifter slid into reverse and the rear tires locked up for a split second before I had that sucker back in N.

[JimKshortstep4x4]

If you are not hearing distinct clicks coming from the transmission when you shift it then you may want to drop the pan and check the detent roller assembly.

If the roller/ notches are worn or if the spring tension is gone then the detent
roller assembly will be real loose when you shift it.

Attached is a picture for reference.

Jim

[Longhorn Man]

Phillip... you are describing the exact reason the the columns suck. Try some lube everywhere in the column... or a good resaon to swap in a high dollar truck tilt... or a low buck van tilt.

[sjarrett71]

Thanks for the info guys. When I go to change the fluid and filter I'll check that detent spring and roller assy. Also, I'd love to get a tilt but it's not in the budget right now, maybe next year sometime. Right now I'm just looking for a way to tighten it up a bit.

[tim21391]

i know my shifter does it..i just barely rest my arm on it and i drop down into L2

[texanidiot25]

Originally Posted by Longhorn Man

Phillip... you are describing the exact reason the the columns suck. Try some lube everywhere in the column... or a good resaon to swap in a high dollar truck tilt... or a low buck van tilt.

You know that money thing? Not alot of that til I find another job. Doesn't bother me enough though, I just put it in D and leave it be.