T400 Floor Shifter/Column Linkage Adjustment

[JJR69COPO]

I'm finishing up the restoration of my 69 COPO Camaro before heading to MCACN on Tuesday. The last thing I need to do is adjust the floor shifter/column linkage because the shifter can be moved into reverse with the key out.

Does anyone have any tips on making the adjustment to the rods and idler lever between the steering column and the shift lever, which, for lack of a better way of saying it, have too much slop.

The adjustment instructions at M35 A9 and M35 A9.5 in the Assembly Manual didn't help so I must be missing something.

Thanks in advance for any input on this straggler problem that's keeping me from finishing this build before it goes to Chicago.

Jim

[William]

My sympathies. Did a column auto COPO 35 years ago. Ex-race car, had to find everything.

Are you certain you have the correct upper/lower lock rods? They look similar. Upper (#3920215) is same as Saginaw and M35, not M38. Lower is unique to TH400 (#3914805), hard to find. Even Firebird TH400 is different.

Sure you have a TH350/400 steering column? There were several assembly line codes. Ours was butchered so I found one from a TH350, worked fine.

[JJR69COPO]

Thanks, William.

Yes, the linkage rods, bell crank, and steering column are all assembly line as far as I can tell. It's a 21,000 mile car with the original drivetrain that has only been driven about 600 miles since 1973.

[JJR69COPO]

I went back and re-read and followed the Assembly Manual directions for adjusting the linkage. All is well. Car is done and will be ready for MCACN.

Thanks everyone.

Jim

[Big Block Bill]

Congratulations! I know how it is. Been there, done that getting ready. Trust me, It will be all worth it. Love the color. Your car looks fantastic. Enjoy! Bill

[JJR69COPO]

Thanks, Bill! First time for me and really looking forward to it.

Jim