3 speed column shifter with different transmissions

[Foot Stomper]

Short question: How can I use a 1959 column shifter with 1955.2 transmission linkage on 1/2 ton truck with 3 on the tree?

Background: I have a 59 half ton and a 55 half ton with and both are three on the tree. I purchased the 55 to use the restoration frame, cab and drivetrain as it had been all rebuilt to stock before I purchased it.

Challenge: Now that we are at the reassembly stage, we've discovered that that the transmissions are different! The shift linkage on the 59 is NOT the same as what the 55 wants because the transmission is different.

Another challenge is that the project is 500 miles away from the extra parts and pieces I purchased with the 55 because I had no idea the transmissions/linkage would be different.

Solution options: Can we use the shift linkage for the 55 from transmission to the 59 shifter block that attaches to the column and to the gear shift handle? OR - do we need to change the shifter block too??

Swapping transmissions is also an option but obviously the least desirable!

Additional challenges?: Can you foresee a problem with clutch pedal to pressure plate configuration? I see in the pictures that it seems to appear the pressure plate/throw out "arm" is different also... yes? no?

I am going to have the casting numbers of both transmissions later today and will post them.

The first three pictures here (with orange cab) are from the 55.2.
The next three pictures (next post) are from the 59.