C2 Shifter R&R

[mike geary]

Would anyone out there confess to gaining access to the shifter mounting bolts by pulling back the carpet and cutting out a small panel in the side of the tunnel? Did it simplify matters as much as I think it will?

ps: this body is not even close to being a virgin.

[Ken K.]

Re: C2 Shifter R&R

I just repaired a 1" hole in the side of mine. Someone had the idea as you do.

[Mike M.]

Re: C2 Shifter R&R

GM shoulda put an access panel in the floor pan.i've had c-1 and c-2's that previous owners took a holesaw to the pan for access purposes. a 1/4" drive flex socket on a 18" extension will get the job done although not as quick. mike

[mike geary]

Re: C2 Shifter R&R *NM*

[Mike Cobine]

Re: C2 Shifter R&R

I just got done putting a '63 shifter in a '63 using an open end wrench and flexible fingers. However, the '63 shifter is different than the '64-'67.

My '66 had the side of the tunnel cut out but it also had a Hurst Super Shifter in it. They had pop riveted some aluminum sheet over it. I took that out, formed a section of fiberglass that gave a bit more room around the shifter, and put it all back. Of course, the Hurst Super Shifter sat up a bit high and looked very non-stock.

If you cut the panel, I'd cut a bit larger and then add some fiberglass as a border/frame to that piece. Then you can put it back in with a few small screws to cover the hole. If you were racing the car and thought you'd be in often, you can use Dzus fastenrs to hold the piece, but for most, a few screws are sufficient as you are not getting in there often.

[mike geary]

Re: C2 Shifter R&R

Mike:

Thanks for the ideas --sounds like the way to go.
Speaking of sheet metal, my '65 came with a rather large sheet metal patch in the jack compartment. The pinion flange u-joint apparently had broken loose and the drive shaft chewed up the floor hump like a school of piranhas! Can't cover that one up with carpet, unfortunately!

Still looking for a floor section from a donor car....

Thanks again, Mike

[Clark D.]

Re: C2 Shifter R&R

I needed to do a similiar repair to my 66 coupe. Corvette Central sells a patch panel that is the rear end hump and half the length of the drive line tunnel. Worked great.