3 on the tree problem

[Sonicman]

My column shifter is getting more and more difficult to work. What is my best option? I know it is the shift mechanism on the steering column under the hood. I would like to keep it for the originality. What should I do?

[jibs]

I'm having the same problem, hope someone can help. JJibs

[68gmsee]

If all of the rubber grommets are in place and not worn off then you may have to relube the shift lever shaft inside the column. The original grease has caked up and dried up to the point where it is hard to shift.

In some cases you can pour wd40 or some other libricant into the shaft and loosen it up. In my case, I had to take it out and take it apart and relube it.

[Sonicman]

I have greased the visible portion. Put a heavy coat on it. But still difficult. How difficult is it to take apart?

[CJ Loeffelholz]

This is pretty sound advice I read elsewhere.

Your problem is most likely in the mechanical relay at the base of the steering column. If you look at it closely you'll see there are two levers: 1st/reverse and 2nd/3rd and in between there is a little pawl that engages the appropriate gear lever. After a few million shifts without lubrication these parts all wear. In many cases, loose enough to allow the pawl to slip between the shift levers WITHOUT engaging them. This is the stuck in, or stuck between situation.
First step is easy. Improve your shift technique. Follow the H pattern. From 1st gear, go up to neutral then forward to engage the 2/3 lever then up again in to 2nd. You can't "cut the diagonal" with these old shifters.
Second, take out all the freeplay. Squeeze all that "stuff" back up, and clamp it tight with the mast jacket clamp on the bottom. Add some lube and give it a try.
In extreme cases you may have to get the mig welder out and build up the worn corners of the pawl.

[usmcchevy]

This may help,
FAQ on shifter adjustment- http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=215307

[oldblue1968chevy]

New bushings would help too, im not all that sure WHERE to get em, if anyone has a link post up..(correct bushings, all 4)

[usmcchevy]

Trans arms- http://www.classicparts.com/1960-76-...ctinfo/91-063/

Column shift arms- http://www.classicparts.com/1947-76-...ctinfo/91-062/

[oldblue1968chevy]

hey ive seen those before, im scared to order from them,last time i did it took 6 months for my mirrors to get in, 'oh there just backordered they'll be here next week'

[jibs]

Originally Posted by usmcchevy

This may help,
FAQ on shifter adjustment- http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=215307

Thanks usmcchevy, I'll try that tomorrow, thanks jibs