Please help me decide which shifter to get...

[62lwbc10]

OK guys Im sure you are all sick of the question, and I have looked at the other posts, but Im still not sure which way to go and am looking for feedback. I have a TH 350 and I want to get a lokar shifter. I really like the nostalgic 2 bend model they have, but cant decide on the length and the finish. I just spent 6 months and a lot of time and money bring the interior to pretty much original specs so Im a little hesitant about the shifter: i dont want to get one that will mess up my original mojo. So im thinking the 16" would be best (rather than 23) and am hoping some of you can help me make that decision. ALso not sure about finish. I thought to go with a black shaft and knob, but the chrome is also calling me. SOmeone talk some sense into me. THe problem is I have a couple of good buddies who are HAMB dudes, so of course they think a 23 inch (or even better 32) with an 8 ball or skull would be best. DOnt get me wrong I like that look too, but not sure it goes with my theme. Help.

[zenchal26]

I put the 23" in mine knob is below top of dash a couple inches. I think it looks good. I went with chrome to match the knobs on dash and radio

[NEWFISHER]

I used the single bend 23" black with black knob. Looks like a manual and sits just below dash as mentioned

[_Ogre]

depends on your theme
stock look i'd go 23''
hotrod i'd go 16''

[Denee007]

Is it difficult to change out the length if you're not liking one or the other? One weekend have a long one, then a shorter one depending on your mood? I'm going to get it on this huh! lol

[Dan in Pasadena]

Originally Posted by 62lwbc10

...The problem is I have a couple of good buddies who are HAMB dudes, so of course they think a 23 inch (or even better 32) with an 8 ball or skull would be best. Don't get me wrong I like that look too, but not sure it goes with my theme. Help.

Tell these buddies that when THEY write the check they can pick what to buy! A little ribbing is fine but it's YOUR truck, do it as YOU like. Follow your gut.

Next, like zenchal said: match the existing theme. Chrome lever w/chrome knob if you have chrome dash knobs. Laminated plastic shift knob if you're using laminated dash knobs, etc.

Length? I have 2 Lokars sitting in my garage, a 16" and a 23". The 23'er is more complete (both bought used) and I'm gonna use it but in general install what is most comfortable and leave the shrunken heads, Goth crap to others that need to display an "attitude" more than drive something that is their own taste. How's that for "talking some sense into" you?

PS: D'ne: There are probably several (vulgar) jokes we could make about, "...switching out for a long one for the weekend" and about being "in the mood".....but since you're one of our own women members and a sweet Southern lady we won't give you a case of "the vapors" like they would over on the HAMB! ha ha

[62lwbc10]

THanks for all the feedback guys. For those of you that have Lokars already installed, can you post some pics? Zenchal? Newfisher?

THanks alot!!!

[Speedbumpauto]

Mine's not finished but here's what the 16" looks like in relation to the dash and seats. I'm using buckets but they're bolted to the stock front mounting holes.

[Dan in Pasadena]

SBP - What car are those buckets and console from? You're saying they're not adjustable? They're simply bolted to the stock front mount holes solidly?

[D-man313]

I went with more of a hotrod theme and have the 32" double bend. Chrome with black knob.

[Speedbumpauto]

Seats are out of a 99 Silverado and they are power adjustable, I just modified the brackets so I could use the factory holes in the front. The console is from a late 90's-2000's Windstar van from pick and pull. It was skinny, flat on the bottom, easy to get out and had cup holders. Met all my needs for $20.....and the scallops for the buckets were nearly a perfect match.

[62lwbc10]

TO make matters worse I see Lokar also offers a 16" "bench bend" which I guess is specifically tailored to bench seats. too much to choose from

[1956chevtruck]

24" Lokar is what I used. Chrome with a black knob, looks old school.

[TomBennett]

Originally Posted by 1956chevtruck

24" Lokar is what I used. Chrome with a black knob, looks old school.

I was looking at your dash panel. What size gauges did you use?

[Dan in Pasadena]

Originally Posted by 62lwbc10

TO make matters worse I see Lokar also offers a 16" "bench bend" which I guess is specifically tailored to bench seats. too much to choose from

You're the decisive type, huh?

Thanks 1956chevytruck, Now I know what mine will look like....albeit your truck is a helluva lot nicer looking inside than mine will be when I install it.

[_Ogre]

24 looks sweet

[Dan in Pasadena]

Originally Posted by _Ogre

24 looks sweet...

Sshhh....they're actually 23"....but I didn't mention it cause I'm being "supportive"

[1956chevtruck]

Originally Posted by Dan in Pasadena

Sshhh....they're actually 23"....but I didn't mention it cause I'm being "supportive"

Dan you make me laugh ... wish we lived closer so we could have beers together!

[lazypineapple]

which ever style you choose,
i would recommend the cable operated one instead of the shaft type.
i started with the shaft type first but didnt like the feel of the shift and the floor flex you could shift it flexing the floor.
bought the cable kit and its a whole lot better feel.