68 shifter rods & linkage

[Michael M.]

I am attempting to replace the shift linkage on my '68 with a 4 speed Muncie. I ordered a kit from Volunteer Vette which indicates it is a complete shift linkage for a 64-68 Corvette. The problem is that the 1-2 shifter rod is about 3/4" shorter than the one on my car (the 3-4 rod is a little shorter too)and the shift levers are different (the rectangular holes which fit over the side cover are at different angles and the levers themselves are taller as well). In addition, the shift rods are bent slightly different from the ones on my car. The adjusting sleeve which goes on the 1-2 shifter rod is also shorter than mine which amplifies the fact that the rod itself is shorter.

I do not have the original tranny in my car. The main case is 3885010 with a code of P7T29, the tailhousing is 3857484 and the side cover is 3884685.

I have installed the locating gage and locked the shifter in neutral (and the transmission is in neutral as well) but I am not sure if my shifter rods are correct and the repops are incorrect or if my shifter rods are incorrect. I am wondering if having the wrong tranny in the car is the cause of the problem, although I doubt it.

Has any one had this problem and can lend some advice? I know I could return the linkage but I wanted to replace it new. All of the other Corvette parts vendors also list the same linkage for a 64-68 but I thought the shift levers were unique to 68. Thanks for any replies.

[Chuck R.]

Re: 68 shifter rods & linkage

Doc Rebuild touts "authentic linkage for around $75.00

Might be worth the investment to lay them side by side and compare.

If you have the time, Carlise will have hundreds of muncie linkages laying on the ground and in tubs.

Sounds like just way too many differences to fudge around with to me.

I thought all four speen muncie linkages were the same. But hey, I own a 68 too and I'm getting surprised every time I compare or order parts.

Good luck on your quest Mike,

Chuck

[Michael M.]

Re: 68 shifter rods & linkage

Thanks Chuck. I didn't think there would be any real differences either but who knows. I may go down to The Last Detail in Atlanta and bring my linkage and see what they have. It could very easily be from a later C3 but then that doesn't really help my situation if the right one is too short. I uess if there was a major problem with the repop linkages being incorrect, someone would have found it before me.