63 C10 w/ TH350 Shift Linkage

[ChevyRed97]

Looking for any tips on setting up shift linkage on my project. Tried the Lokar universal kit but I am having issues with alignment allowing a smooth shift and I can't access all the gears. Best adjustment I can get allows me to shift to D but I cant grab 1st or 2nd. Running a 283 with a TH350 and factory column. Any help is appreciated

[72Mountaineer]

What column are you using?

[ChevyRed97]

I am using a factory auto column

[ChevyRed97]

Trying to look online and all the setups I see seem to be newer and don't have a crossmember coming across below the front of the trans. This wont allow me to rotate the shift arm on the transmission so it has to start about the 10-11 o'clock position and can only travel to 6-7 which doesn't give me enough travel to let the linkage move freely and is in also causing it to be in a bind. I could always bend the linkage rod to free it up some but lack of travel seems to be my biggest problem.

[geezer#99]

Originally Posted by ChevyRed97

I am using a factory auto column

Did this column come originally on your truck?

Was your truck originally a 3 on the tree or 4 on the floor?

[ChevyRed97]

Well I inherited it from my grandfather so it's hard to tell exactly. The story is that it was 3 on the tree originally and he pulled the column from an automatic but I can't swear to it, long before my time.

[geezer#99]

Usually when you swap in a turbo 350, you need to remove the bellhousing crossmember and install a trans tailshaft crossmember.
Two reasons for that.
One is your linkage as you’ve found out.
Second is angle your motor sits at. If you view the engine centreline it needs to slope downward towards the tailshaft about 4 degrees. That allows minimal u-joint angles and keeps your carb level.
To get the tailshaft down to the right spot the bellhousing crossmember needs to be removed.

[ChevyRed97]

Ok, I appreciate the help. I will check that out. I did end up installing a tail shaft crossmember to mount the trans properly so the bellhousing crossmember isn't serving a purpose. I assumed I needed to leave it in there for structural reasons

[geezer#99]

Your tailshaft crossmember will act as structural support.

[72Mountaineer]

On my 64 I used a setup from an early 80s S10, rod down to a pivot that bolts to the frame, small arm from there to the trans, U-shaped piece on the trans.

[ChevyRed97]

Thanks to you both for the info, between the two ideas I think I might be able to get it handled now.