Top Loader Linkage

[69machmike]

Ok, Hopfully I can describe this without the use of pictures.

Originally my mach 1 had been converted to a racer. The shifter linkage has been moved about 4-5" left of the correct location. They had placed spacers along the transmission (before the shifter) which accomplished (what they thought) was a better location for the shifter. This also resulted in my transmission tunnel being splayed open.

I have repaired the tunner and have the correct location re-established.

As I am restoring the car back to proper form and need a good picture of exactly how the shifter should be sitting in contrast to the transmission.

Even better a link to the correct linkage would be great. (ie.e mustnags unlimited or other retailers). I have the hurst shifter. It's clearly obvious to me the linkage (regardless of functionality) I have isn't correct because of the shifter location. I cannot tell if the shifter needs to be elevated and moved or if removing the spacers and getting new linkage is enough.

I will post a picture when I get home.

Mike

 

[woodsnake]

Yours will be similar, if you have the right Ford toploader transmission.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikiped..._3-speed_OD_Transmission_w._Hurst_Shifter.jpg

Webshots - Full Size Photo

 

[2+2GT]

If the shift rods are straight, it's a Super Shifter, not the usual Competition Plus. You'll have to replace the whole thing. The factory Hurst Competition Plus had no limit stop bolts on the case, and the reverse switch bracket was a tab on the lower rear that was part of the case, not added on.

 

[69machmike]

Ok took some pictures.

I went here to identify exactly which top loader I have David Kee Toploader Transmissions, Inc.

I have been driving with this thing for 10 years before I got hit so...It does work well. I had it rebuilt just before the drunk hit my car.

Here is the top view. - So it looks like I have to remove the spacers and get new linkage.
View attachment 245539

I also see where the extra 1" shifter movement comes from (the bent shifter handle/lever). It is all making sense now. I would definitely like to switch shifter levers.

ID Tag = RUG-E2 1968 Mustang, Cougar 289 wide 28-spline
View attachment 245540

Any further comment is greatly appreciated...like favorite retailer to get the linkage and shifter bar from. I have had this bad boy hooked up to my Boss 351 without incident.

 

[woodsnake]

I think summit will be your friend here.....

 

[BarnStang]

If you call David Kee back and give him your tail housing casting number, he will give you the correct part number for the linkage kit you can order from Summit...

 

[2+2GT]

You can't just remove the spacers, the mounting plate and chrome shift lever are incompatible with the hole in the Mustang floor. The competition plus also has different levers on the bottom, IIRC. From this angle you can't tell, but base of the lever is offset from the shifter over to the right to the hole in the floor. The aftermarket shifter is quite different from the factory installed unit in the way the lever attaches, and in the angle of the shifter.

This is the aftermarket unit:

View attachment 245414

This is the Ford-installed unit.

 

[69machmike]

2+2 GT,

Forgive me if I am being thick here.

My goal was to get the shifter back to the correct location by:

Losing the spacers
Purchasing the correct linkage bars
Buy a new Shift lever (the one with the bend in it)
Verify if I need to update any other pieces.

Is this plan not sound? I need to get that shifter into the correct location. I do not mind losing the HURST INDY Lever and switching up to a different lever and mechanism if needed.

Does the after market unit not have the bend in the lever?

Thanks in advance
Mike

 

[woodsnake]

Yes, it is a good plan. You want to remove the 'icky' shifter and get the right one.

If I understand you right, you are now looking for the correct replacement parts, right?


I believe this is what you want:

Summit 13-0072 - Summit® Manual Transmission Shifter and Installation Kit Value Packs - Overview - SummitRacing.com

 

[2+2GT]

It won't work. You have a Super Shifter. You can't put the Mustang chrome lever on it.

Mustang Competition Plus:

View attachment 245379

Super Shifter:

View attachment 245380

 

[69machmike]

I apologize I didn't make myself clear. I should be able to replace the lever AND the other components completely, leaving only the transmission the same correct? I do realize that I cannot put a new lever into the existing lever mechanics and linkage. It all needs to be replaced. Hopefully I haven't confused others or myself further.

Thanks
Mike

 

[2+2GT]

I apologize I didn't make myself clear. I should be able to replace the lever AND the other components completely, leaving only the transmission the same correct? I do realize that I cannot put a new lever into the existing lever mechanics and linkage. It all needs to be replaced. Hopefully I haven't confused others or myself further.

Thanks
Mike

Oh yeah, if you go to Glazier Nolan, Summit, etc., and get a new Competition Plus and rod set, all you need then is your car. Well, you might want to consider a switch and bracket for the back-up lights, very helpful for backing up and passing inspection.

 

[69machmike]

ANy clue on the value of my old shifter now that I am removing it? I would like to sell it.

Mike

 

[woodsnake]

You can do a search on ebay, and see what they are going for.....