'63 shifter same as '59, '60, '61, '62??

[Michael G.]

Good evening fellow Corvetters. I've recently purchased what I believe to be a '63 4 speed shifter. My research indicates the shifter (other than shifter ball) appears the same as 4 speed shifters used from 1959 through 1962...with the '63 being a carry over. Please could someone educate me and validate this observation or offer up some clarity. Thank you in advance. Mike #28614

[Geoff C.]

Few could tell them apart. *NM*

[Ray C.]

Re: '63 shifter same as '59, '60, '61, '62??

Hi!

I believe that the shifter is the same, but the levers that attach to the shifting linkage are different for the Muncie (late) vs. the BW (early) transmissions.

Ray

[Michael G.]

Re: '63 shifter same as '59, '60, '61, '62??

I believe you are correct regarding the levers. When Chevrolet switched from the BW to the Muncie in mid production 1963 of course the '63 shifter remained the same. I believe in switching to the Muncie the shifter rods stayed the same but different levers were added to accomodate the "new" Muncie. Do you or anyone out there can confirm this. Thanks. Mike #28614.

[Michael H.]

Re: '63 shifter same as '59, '60, '61, '62??

Mike,

The 4-speed shifter for 63 is slightly different than the 62 and earlier shifter. The only change made for 63 was the reverse lever. There was a clearance problem on the new 63 chassis so the lever was shortened about an inch. Other than that, they are identical.

The same shifter was used for the entire 63 model year, both Borg-warner and Muncie transmissions. Only the levers and rods were changed for the two different transmissions.

If you have a 62 shifter and want to convert it to a 63, you may be able to purchase the reverse lever in reproduction and install.

[Michael G.]

Re: '63 shifter same as '59, '60, '61, '62??

Thanks for the clarity Michael. Regards, Mike #28614