Worn 727 shift linkage

[Laxy]

Hi all,

After installing a new 727 in my '68, having some issues with too much play in the factory console shifter meaning no amount of adjusting can get the full range of gears (either get Park or 1st). Didn't have this problem with the previous 727, all same linkages and same gearbox type.

The car is also creeping in Neutral with the poor adjustment (HOPEFULLY that's all it is). From all the threads I have read, looks like a common issue.

In the first pic below, the lever is turning on the rod before actually turning the rod, creating 1/4-1/2 inch of play in the shifter. Do I need a new shifter rod, and where can I find one?








Shifter bushings seem ok but there is sideways play - should I replace these too? Should there be no side to side movement at all?



Shifter rod has very slight sideways movement in the top and bottom bushings (ie. hole slightly too big) - is this normal or should it be very tight in there?


Thanks for any help, it's driving me nuts!! 9 months off the road and dying to drive the bloody thing!

[John_Kunkel]

You're missing the pinch bolt in pics #1 and #2. The cut out area near the open slit in the lever is for a square head nut that a bolt and washer threads into. When the bolt is tightened it will pinch the lever and keep it from spinning on its shaft.

[Laxy]

Awesome, thanks heaps I will go and check this out now.

[Laxy]

Just to close this off, I found the bolt and nut kicking around in the centre console and it has really tightened up the shifter assembly. That's the problem with pulling a car apart over numerous beers with mates! 

It no longer creeps in neutral and I've put 60 odd miles on the new box to run it in, feels strong!

Leaky trans cooler line fitting to fix but at least it is mobile again.

Thanks for the help John.