Floor Console Shifter

[Mad_Trbo]

As someo of you know I have been trying to determine why I cannot move floor mounted shifter into gears other than P / R / D. After looking through the various post it seems as thought there could be a problem with my shift linkage. I tried to get the center console out so I could see how the mechanism works on the top end, but it appears I cannot find all the bolts required to get the console out.

Can anyone give me a kick in the right direction as to where I should be looking to unbolt the center console, I want to trace the entire route of the shift linkage and make sure it isn't binding anywhere.

 

[84gnguy]

It's probably the column linkage thats binding up.Disconnect it and see how it is.

 

[Mad_Trbo]

When you guys say column linkage, for one reason or another I am thinking of an automatic car that has a shift on the column. For the 87 t-type with the shifter in the middle console, there is a mechanism in the column as well?

 

[84gnguy]

floor shift cars have an interlock with the steering column..meaning as you move the floor shifter,the column rotatates as well.There is a rod that runs from the trans linkage..look underneath,you will see exactly what I'm talking about it.Its the the piece that everyone throws away when they install an aftermarket shifter

 

[Mad_Trbo]

Ok will do. you recommend disconnecting and seeing how the car does then.
If I make your suggested adjustment and find the car is better off, can I run without that connection? Seems as though the answer would be yes if those who are installing it aftermarket disconnect it and throw it out.


I still need to figure out how to take out that center console, or at least replace the whole stalk. When I bought the car, the shifter did not have the t-handle on it and the little white nub sticking up that you are supposed to depress to get the car from drive into reverse does not work.

So currently you can shift the durn thing from drive into reverse without pressing that button. A serious problem if you ask me, which could result in something real ugly if you accidentally hit the stalk.

 

[3point8]

Removing the console

You asked about the fasteners that hold the console in place. Just off the top of my head here's what I remember:
two in the glove box
two under the ash tray
two at the front under the insert panel. You have to remove the T handle (maybe not in your case lift the insert panel up at one end (forget if its front or back) move the shifter to allow you to lift the thing over the top of the stalk. The screws are accessible under there. While you have gone to all that trouble you might consider replacing the bulb and make sure you don't disturb the ground wire connection when reinstalling the console.
HTH
Peter

 

[Mad_Trbo]

thanks