Reinstalling manual transmission 1970 350/350

[James N.]

I removed the motor and transmission together last fall for the motor to be rebuilt. The M-21 has had a Hurst Comp + installed with it since I purchased the car and I'm replacing that Hurst unit with a stock shifter/linkage now that the tranny is on the floor. It appears as if the original shifter and lever assembly bolts to a support assembly (3921629 pg. K200 AIM) which attaches to a frame cross member. The old Hurst unit bolted directly to the back of the tranny case. There was no support assembly. Do I install the support assembly to the cross member before installing the motor and tranny or should I install the support after the motor and tranny is installed? Or should I attach the support assembly to the shifter and lever assembly before installing the motor and transmission. I had intended to install the motor and transmission already bolted to together in one piece. Is it easier to install them independently?The front clip is on the car, the radiator, it's support, shroud, etc. is removed. As you know it's a tight squeeze in the shifter/lever assembly area and I have the misfortune of possesing big fat fingers and small skinny patience.

[Jim T.]

Re: Reinstalling manual transmission 1970 350/350

Jim, I have removed the M21 transmission in my 68 only 3 times, but the engine was not removed. I don't remember if I removed the shifter and support assembly before removing the transmission. I think I left the shifter in the car the first time to install a new clutch, pressure plate, and throwout bearing in 1972. Last time was in the 80's when I removed the transmission to remove the seized cast iron plug that is located in transmission case and is removed to check the lubricant or add lubricant. Having your transmission out with the engine I think it would be easier/better to install them as a unit.