Correct "swan" neck shifter rod?

John Mc

John Mc

Senior Member
Guys, I've been told that my '39 1/2 Ton should have a unique to '39 transmission shift rod. Is this so? If so, is this readily available somewhere or do I have to have mine bent?
 
John: On my 35 with 39 transmission we had to heat and bend the 39 shift lever to look like the swan and not hit the seat or dash. Looks close but not as nice as the 35. We chromed it after bending. Dave/Green Bay
 
Last edited:
Got this picture out of Mac Van Pelts book on Ford transmissions, he answers all questions in the book. Go to his web-site
www.vanpeltsales.com
 

Attachments

  • Flathead_Trans_shifterlevers.jpg
    Flathead_Trans_shifterlevers.jpg
    27.6 KB · Views: 93
36-39 4 7/8" from the top of the pivot ball to the end. 32-35 4 1/8 there is a difference in the lever length.
 
Yeah, reality is so many have been bent over the years for a number of reasons that it may be tough to find a untouched original.

Of course, the million or so that were made, chances are there are still a few good ones left. Best of luck with your search.
 
Hot Rod John on Flee-Pay sells the stainless steel unbent shift control. You bend it any way you want it. Being stainless, it will likely take a good bit of force to bend though. The stainless will polish like chrome without the corrosion problems.

Kerby
 
I have bent several ( no heat ) with a pipe / conduit bender, sometimes called a "HICKIE " but if you want to come off at a close 90 at the shift tower, maybe some heat ?? to move the shifter closer to your leg or knee, its what feals right?? or thats why cowboys hats turn up on both sides, so you can get 4 people in the front seat of your pickup, think about it. ....OLD....BILL
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top