aluminum heads & shift leavers

F

fjz

Member
I am also new to the Barn and very much appreciate the help I have received with putting together my 48 which was disassembled when I got it. I put Eledebrock aluminum heads on and now cannot shift gears. The upper shift lever hits the back the head as it is an 1" thicker than the original. What is the fix? I am thinking of shorting the shaft about a 1/2" which would lift the shifter. Look forward to your comments. Regards to all. Frank
 
Had the same problem with Offy heads. You can shorten the Second/High shift rod, but only the minimum it takes to get a tiny bit of clearance. I over shortened on the first try and had trouble with the transmission jumping out of high gear because the shift lever on the ****** wasn't getting fully into the detent.

You must also shorten the Low/Reverse shift rod by the same amount, or you can not get through the cross bar of the H shift pattern.

Plan B, grind off the back edge head where it interferes. It would not be visible.
 
DR: What do you think of my thought of shorting the tube at the top which would lift both shift levers and rods? Your plan B is the easiest and safest.
 
fjz said:
DR: What do you think of my thought of shorting the tube at the top which would lift both shift levers and rods? Your plan B is the easiest and safest.
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Sorry I misunderstood your plan. Never thought of that. I will look under the hood and let you know what I think. But somebody on this vast board has probably tried that and can offer advice.
 
I had same problem with a SBF in my '41. shift lever hit the valve cover. I just cut the shift lever shorter and welded. worked great for years.
 
DR How much did you shorten the shift rods? I have lifted the column 3/8" and it has helped. Not sure how much the steering box will allow. I expect a call from Eldebrock tomorrow as to their recommendation. Will post for the benefit of others.
 
I shortened the shift rods also about 3/8" and with that can still get the second/high shift lever on the ****** into the detent (gear fully engaged).
 
fjz said:
Fordor41: How much did you shorten the lever and how did you weld it as they are cast?
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as I remember about 1/2". heated it with a torch until HOT and stick welded it with nickel/iron rod. let cool slowly, peen with hammer to relieve stresses. Actually at the time, 1997, I thought they were cast iron. whatever, it is still on my car except now it operates my C-4.
 
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