Removing the shifter handle from a 1961

[David H.]

Is it necessary to remove the transmission from the car to replace just the chrome handle of the shifter on my 1961 Corvette?

[Don H.]

Re: Removing the shifter handle from a 1961

David, No, it can be done with transmission in the car. It makes it easier if you loosen the transmission & engine mount bolts to move it slightly to the side. You will gain an inch or so. Good luck, Don H.

[David H.]

Re: Removing the shifter handle from a 1961

David, No, it can be done with transmission in the car. It makes it easier if you loosen the transmission & engine mount bolts to move it slightly to the side. You will gain an inch or so. Good luck, Don H.

[Don H.]

Re: Removing the shifter handle from a 1961

Not that I am aware of. It is pretty straight forward, just a tight fit.

[David H.]

Re: Removing the shifter handle from a 1961

Anyone want to give me a quick walk tru?

[Don H.]

Re: Removing the shifter handle from a 1961

Are you changing the handle only or the handle and rods? If it is the handle only and both are a stock handle:
1. Remove the shifter knob, shift pattern plate, boot surround, & shifter boot. Make sure the car is in neutral, emergency brake on.
2. Loosen both front motor mount bolts (the motor mount is between the water pump & block), do this on the top side of the engine compartment.
3. Raise the car (lift or jack & jack stands) observing normal safety procedures.
4. Remove the 2 bolts that connect the transmission to the cross member.
5. Move the transmission/engine assembly toward the right (passenger) side.
6. Remove the three shifter arms from the transmission - the transmission may shift gears when you loosen the nut (1/2" nut I think). If it does move it back to neutral.
7. Remove the bolts securing the shifter to the transmission. This will take some maneuvering as there is not much room (you gained a little by moving the transmission/engine over).
8. The rods are attached to the shifter by spring clips. Take notice how they mount (I always have extra on hand just in case).
9. Assemble in reverse order.

I have written this from memory (dangerous) so I hope I haven't forgotten anything (it has been quite a few years since I did this). Hopefully others will correct any mistakes I have made. Good luck, Don H.

[Frank D.]

Re: Removing the shifter handle from a 1961

Are you changing the handle only or the handle and rods? If it is the handle only and both are a stock handle:
1. Remove the shifter knob, shift pattern plate, boot surround, & shifter boot. Make sure the car is in neutral, emergency brake on.
2. Loosen both front motor mount bolts (the motor mount is between the water pump & block), do this on the top side of the engine compartment.
3. Raise the car (lift or jack & jack stands) observing normal safety procedures.
4. Remove the 2 bolts that connect the transmission to the cross member.
5. Move the transmission/engine assembly toward the right (passenger) side.
6. Remove the three shifter arms from the transmission - the transmission may shift gears when you loosen the nut (1/2" nut I think). If it does move it back to neutral.
7. Remove the bolts securing the shifter to the transmission. This will take some maneuvering as there is not much room (you gained a little by moving the transmission/engine over).
8. The rods are attached to the shifter by spring clips. Take notice how they mount (I always have extra on hand just in case).
9. Assemble in reverse order.

I have written this from memory (dangerous) so I hope I haven't forgotten anything (it has been quite a few years since I did this). Hopefully others will correct any mistakes I have made. Good luck, Don H.

You have a good memory sir - I can't see where you've missed anything!