Screwed up need some advice

[Gertvr]

I forgot, didn't think, or was just plain stupid, but didn't install the shift rod before installing the engine. Was getting ready to install the shifter and realized what i have done. I tried getting it in through the hand brake opening but it does not clear some of the bracing inside the tunnel

Is there another way to get this in or do i have to remove the engine to get the rod in the tunnel?

Thanks

Gert

[Danny_Ocean]

There have been some previous posts on this issue. None involving a forgotten install, but wanting to change the shift-rod with the motor in. As I recall, it can be done. Try searching "shift rod" and "replacement" to see what pops up.

[jonbot]

I have this habit of remembering really random things, and one of those random things is a thread about a month or two ago discussing upgrading to an aftermarket racing type of shifter, like a Hargett precision shifter or something, and someone mentioned that they were able to pull their old shift rod out through the tunnel, and people's responses were in the essence of "I didn't think that was possible, we usually just zip-tie them to the side of the tunnel and leave it". Try to find that thread and contact whomever maneuvered it out, should be able to maneuver it back in the same way. Better yet, if that person reads this post, say something.

[pantera]

It defintely can be removed. A friend of mine recently installed a Hargett shifter and removed the rod out through the tunnel. I believe the trick was that he had his center shifter console removed. Reinstalling it though might still present a problem. Easier out then in.

Dan

[Gertvr]

It just occurred to me that i am already where others wanted to be i.e. remove the shift rod to install a Hargett shifter. I have a new Rennshift shifter that i have not used with coupling that i can offload and replace that with the Hargett. It is also, by the threads that i just read, not to difficult to relocate the handbrake and defroster controls to the original shifter position. I think i have some further research & pondering to do...

Gert

[Gertvr]

Thanks for all the responses. Read a lot of good things about the Hargett shifter, going that route. Funny how things work....

Gert