Replacement of shifter bushings

[BadDog]

I got the little pieces from MSA... now would anybody care to tell me how to replace the old ones? (on a '73)

[2ManyZs]

Well, you have to remove shift knob then the console with the outer shifter boot, remove the screws from the inner boot and remove it, then take a small screwdriver and pop the e-clip loose on the shifter mounting pin (put a finger on it so it doesn't fly away) and lift up on the shifter. It should pop right out and probably bring the lower bushing with it, then just pop out the two halves in the pivot of the shifter and replace the bottom one. Reverse the order and you are done, unless you let the e-clip fly away.

Usually takes longer to remove and replace the console than it does to replace the bushings. If your inner shift boot has any holes in it it's not a bad idea to replace it too, lots of air and fumes can come in around there.

[BadDog]

Thanks, 2ManyZs. Yes, I replaced the inner boots etc. already when I did my choke cables (the bushings were on back order from MSA at that point).

I figured it was relatively simple, I just didn't want to go in and try without a clue as to what I was doing

[Daniel]

I would start with the shifter in neutral. Daniel

[zztom]

BadDog, was your shifter real sloppy and loose feeling? Mine seems to have gotten bad real fast. So far I'm not having a good Spring. We only get 6 months to drive here (upstate NY) and I'll be spending most of it under the car.

Zztom:sleep:

[BadDog]

zztom: yeah, it's really loose feeling, ever since I got the car about 1-1/2 months ago. I plan to do the bushings this weekend or before, I'll try to follow up here regarding how it turned out.

BTW, I live in Oswego and work in Syracuse. We should meet up sometime and check out each other's rides I've been meaning to get in touch with a local Z club, I think there's one in the Rochester area...

[Daniel]

Hey baddog,While your console is out you may wish to use jb weld to reinforce the nubs that hold the choke support screws.Incasing them perhaps will extend their life as they crack with age. Daniel

[BadDog]

they're already broken, and I got "yelled" at here for putting sheet metal screws through the console (it's not in too great shape anyway). I think I'll patch it up with JB Weld though if I get a chance. I've gotta do my shift boot at the same time, and possible radio or new stereo...

[zztom]

BadDog,

The Z club in Rochester is part of our Z.A.N.Y. (Z Association of N.Y.) club. We have shows now and then and our big one is at Burdick Nissan in Syracuse. Maybe someday we will get together. If you check out my profile pics one of them is last years' show.

I am definitely gonna need those bushings....

Zztom :sleep: