HELP NEEDED Z bar bracket LOCATION

[rbbruno3]

I am switching from an automatic to a standard. I would like to know where to position the Z bar bracket. I have a good idea as it has to be at the access panel on inner fender. Is it super critical or is there enough play in the ball? Or is the side distance to the bell more critical? Should the Z bar be parallel to the firewall when in the Z bar bracket? Any input or pictures would be very helpfull. Thanks, Rick

[Chatt69chgr]

I am facing the same problem on my 69 Charger.  Need the same info.

[Ghoste]

Just my opinion, but if you plan on shifting it hard I would be trying to have all of the linkage in the exact location.  The super stock teams spend a lot of time on details like this and there is a reason for it. 

[rbbruno3]

Thanks  for your input Ghoste    So I should set a block and trans in place?

[Ghoste]

Its a lot of work but if you want it perfect...
Just one mans opinion though.

[Chatt69chgr]

I wonder if they used a template at the factory to locate the frame mounted z-bar bracket?  I guess that's academic since if they did, the template is long gone.  Was hoping I could get it mounted before installing the drivetrain but I can see that to get it on the money, I better follow Ghoste's suggestion.

[Mick70RR]

Here's a few pictures I took of my Road Runner z-bar a few years ago. They may be enough for you to go by.

[Chatt69chgr]

Well now, thats interesting.  It's centered right square in the middle of the access hole in the inner fender panel.  How about other folks that have factory 4-speeds.  Is that where your Z-bar frame welded on bracket is positioned?  If so, that could be where Dodge put all of them.  I do realize that that doesn't necessarily mean that it would be lined up square with the ball stud on the bell housing as there could be variability between one vehicle and another.

[Troy]

There's a "V" in the frame rail to locate the bracket. I've seen other people just center it in the hole. I have a few pictures that I've posted before but now I have access to a real 4-speed car with the engine removed so I can get better pictures. I'll try to get them tonight.

Troy

[Chatt69chgr]

Thanks Troy.  I'll look forward to viewing the pictures. 

[vancamp]

if you have the engine in or at least bolt up a bare block and bell housing you can take a piece of all thread and thead it into the bell where the stud would go, the with two nuts one on either side of the bracket to hold it in place tack it in remove rod and weld solid, just make sure you measure the width of the z bar for the width

[rbbruno3]

Thanks everybody for all your ideas and pictures. I' like to see your pics too Troy. I think its probably best to set a block and bell in place. Its alot more work to do it twice thanks, Rick

[John_Kunkel]

I saved these pics from another forum, can't testify to the accuracy.

[John_Kunkel]

From front side of bracket to front of opening.

[rbbruno3]

Thanks for your help John    Rick