replacing the shifter linkage in C3

[John G.]

Looking at 71 LT1 to buy and driving it today I found shift linkage very loose. What is involved to replace the linkage or the shifter? Can it be done from inside car or it transmission out?
John

[Mark #28455]

linkage vs shifter slop

If you are lucky, it's the linkage where the pins go through the shift arms. In that case a replacement of the arms and shifter linkage would fix it. Unfortunately, if that end is worn, likely the attachment to the shifter itself is worn as well and the shift handle may be worn where it moves the shift levers in the shifter. Aftermarket Hurst shifters used bushings at the shift linkage (a better design).

See Paragon catalog page 22.

Mark

[David B.]

Re: linkage vs shifter slop

Most likely what Mark said, however also check the bolts that hold the flat shifter linking bars at the side cover that the rods attach to. Those bolts can work loose and will make the shifter feel sloppy. If they are loose, add Locktite to them before tightening them them up.

In answer to your other question, all of this can be done with the transmission in the car. Also, if you need to replace the shifter assembly entirely, it can be done with the transmission in the car.

Dave Banwarth

[Jim T.]

Re: replacing the shifter linkage in C3

www.volvette.com has new shifters and rods for the 71. Look at the retainers and how they are shaped on the car and see if they are like what is offered by Volunteer Vette. Cotter pins as retainers for the rods is not what came on the car.