Issue with rebuild column shifter

[cold-steel22]

I've been in the process of rebuilding my 3speed manual column for a '67 bump. The shift tube appeared to be in good working order, but missing the plastic sleeve at the bottom end. I have replaced all other plastic spacers and bushings, installed new wiring in the column, and had the column powder coated. After putting it back together I have discovered that the shifter will not extend down to the lower "1st & reverse" arm. It will only shift the closer arm, even when the shifter is pulled back. All plastic shims are oriented per the tech article on column rebuilding and visually checked for alignment. Would the missing plastic sleeve at the bottom cause this? It feels as though the shift tube is too short to engage properly.

[sargentrs]

The plastic sleeve at the bottom of the shift tube is the bearing surface and what keeps the shift tube centered in the bottom retainer of the column housing. Without that, you could be binding and most certainly have play in the tube that could be keeping the tang from engaging in the slot of the lower shift lever arm. I don't see where anybody sells just that nylon sleeve but DC, Macs, C&G, LMC all sell the whole shift tube assembly for around $50. C5TZ-7212-C You might be able to make your own but I don't know how well that would work. Might miss something in the design and probably have to modify it's ID/OD if you have a lathe or access to one. http://www.mcmaster.com/#standard-sleev ... gs/=zes9yo

[cold-steel22]

Thanks for the info. I'll order a new shift tube. If I tried fabricating a sleeve i don't know that it would go well. I was worried not having that sleeve would cause an issue, but thought I would take a shortcut and try without. Looking inside the bottom of the column I can see where the spring on the tube is sitting at an angle, so probably binding like you said.
I had to cross reference parts for a new shift lever from a ford comet, and purchase a new shift collar. Both parts on the original were shot. Everything is tight on the repro parts. I may also inspect and Dremel the shift collar where the shift lever actuates to allow for a deeper range of motion, if needed. I'll update if that's a contributing factor, but I'm certain you're right Sargentrs.
Side note: I spent a long time searching for new or good condition used manual shifter levers for the column shifter. Mac's sells an identical shifter arm under their Ford Comet catalog.. Chrome plated with black knob for late 60's. CGfordparts is the only place that has the lever actually listed under their F100 catalog, but they're hard to locate.

[jimmy828]

I've been in the process of rebuilding my 3speed manual column for a '67 bump. The shift tube appeared to be in good working order, but missing the plastic sleeve at the bottom end. I have replaced all other plastic spacers and bushings, installed new wiring in the column, and had the column powder coated. After putting it back together I have discovered that the shifter will not extend down to the lower "1st & reverse" arm. It will only shift the closer arm, even when the shifter is pulled back. All plastic shims are oriented per the tech article on column rebuilding and visually checked for alignment. Would the missing plastic sleeve at the bottom cause this? It feels as though the shift tube is too short to engage properly.

I have the exact same issue with my shifting. I replaced everything in the column but the shift tube. I pulled the shift tube back out and decided to inspect it. I believe the tube that i have has a enlarged hole where the shift lever fits into. I came to conclusion that the lever was coming out of the little hole without engaging the shift tube. The hole on tab which the lever fits thru is just to big for the lever to work like it should . I guess it's just wore out after 40 years. At least i'm hoping that is the problem on mine because i'm going to order a new tube myself.

[cold-steel22]

Update-
I purchased a new shift tube and installed it. Reassembly showed the same issue with the tube not connecting with the bottom shift arm. While dissecting further I discovered that the reproduction shift collar I had purchased was not seating all the way on the column housing due to clearance issues in the metal casting. Where the collar sits into the housing there's a section that must feed into the middle of the housing, keeping the tube and collar straight. That section was cast a bit too thick, making the shift collar ride about 1/2" too high. After grinding with a Dremel all is fitting and shifting well. I'm not sure if that is a recurring issue, but wanted to report in case it does happen to somebody else.

[sargentrs]

Thanks for updating us! For future reference, where did you buy the shift collar? We'd all like to know.

[cold-steel22]

Looking back through records I believe I purchased the collar from C&G Ford Parts. Although I will say that I can't blame them for the fitment issue. The part number was the same that Mac's auto had listed.
Definitely a learning experience. I tore the column apart and rebuilt it a few times before finally getting it smooth. Now it shifts like brand new though.

[sargentrs]

Thanks for the info! Glad to hear you're back in business.