[FC] 61 FC Transmission Linkage comments

[Michael Henrie]

Thanks to everyone in the forum. I can wiggle the shifter probably a foot either way while in first gear. It's really loose. But luckily I have friends that are helping me because I'm no mechanic and as not rich enough to just frame off it. Thanks to everone at Corvanatics that responded!

----- Original Message -----
From: N2VZD at aol.com
Sent: 11/24/12 07:29 PM
To: m.henrie at mail.com, corvanatics at corvair.org
Subject: Re: [FC] 61 FC Transmission Linkage comments

MY advise is to start with a new transmission shift coupler , and lube the pivot and shifter points up front. If really worn up front , get it bushed. I have converted one to the newer style , BUT it is not easy , and impossible without a donor vehicle.
The earlier FC's (pre 63?) have a crossmember that does not lend itself to putting the opening for the shifter rod through without serious engineering. Like I said , I have done it , and it was very nice after the work , but I would not offer to do it again for any money.
Also , If you do it , you want a good chunk of the donor floor , including several inches of the rise area with reinforcements, along with the shift lever area of the floor. Without this , The shift lever WILL move the floor around because it is too weak. I encountered another persons attempt to do this with only the flat area of the floor.
I just redid the early stock shifter on Phil's "Arizona loadside" project , with very good results.
So start with a new coupler , Clark's part number C131R and a new pin , and you may be very surprised. Most old ones are worn pin holes , and loose rubber in them.
If you get under the rear of the FC and grab the coupler and feel ANY play , You will fix most of the problem with those 2 parts. (pin and coupler). Take the shift rod off the vehicle to work on it , or you will damage /bend it. If you have a late style , put the quick shift kit ( C3943A) on it, It works soooo nice!! 
PS: mine are now powerglides ....
Regards, Tim Colson

In a message dated 11/24/2012 8:02:07 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, m.henrie at mail.com writes:http://tinypic.com/r/w0p4xe/6