Muncie vs Hurst C3

[Rob H.]

Hey there-

My '69 L36 currently has a Hurst shifter (M22 transmission), and I am considering changing it back to the original Muncie shifter. I am in the process on NCRS'ing my car back to original condition, not to mention I really prefer the way the original shifter looks.

Can anyone offer some insight as to the main diiferences between the two shifters? (Outside of the reverse lock-out feature...)

Is is a difficult job to swap them?

Any advice from someone who has done this job before would be more than welcomed. Thanks in advance for your help!

Best,
Rob

[William V.]

Re: Muncie vs Hurst C3

Rob

The two shifters are totally different in design. This includes the linkage.

If you have under car exhaust the left side engine exhaust pipe needs to be removed.
Also the transmission mount and bracket need to be removed.

Before you start I suggest all Muncie shifter mounting hardware be checked to ensure you are not missing something.

BV

[Joe L.]

Re: Muncie vs Hurst C3

Rob-----

It's not difficult to do. All you need to do is to remove the existing Hurst linkage in its entirety (shifter + shifter rods) and install the original Muncie style shifter as available from most of the Corvette parts vendors. You'll need both the shifter assembly and the shifter rods with all attachments and hardware.

One thing, though: most of the time when Hurst shifters are installed on 66+ Corvettes, the frame mounted shifter mounting bracket is removed and the Hurst linkage bolted directly to the transmission extension housing (like pre-66 linkage). So, if this has been done to yours, then you will need to obtain the shifter mounting bracket, too.

The Hurst linkage and extension housing mount is probably better for competition type activities. However, the Muncie linkage and bracket mounting is better for noise and vibration isolation. For a street driven Corvette, in my mind the Muncie linkage is the only way to go.

[Rob H.]

Re: Muncie vs Hurst C3

Thanks Bill & Joe for your info!

As far as judging goes, are there any points deductions for a new shifter as opposed to getting an old original? From my review, I didn't see anything in the tech manual.

Rob

[William V.]

Re: Muncie vs Hurst C3

Rob

I'm not a judge. However, the judging standard is to look like it did when Chevy delivered it new. So if the Muncie meets this standard you should get full point credit.

BV

[Joe L.]

Re: Muncie vs Hurst C3

Rob-----

From what I've seen, the reproduction Muncie shifters appear identical to the originals in every way. In fact, I strongly suspect that they're manufactured by the same company that made them originally for GM.