When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Hey guys and gals, long time wrencher, 2nd C3 engine ever (first was 20+ years ago) with original 4 speed. Doing and engine for a close friend, and heard there is something specific about how the shifter rods need to be when reinstalling the transmission, Like some kind of gap or groove when the rods line up. Ive seen some info online but not very good pictures or explanation. Hoping for some help from you Corvette gurus. ANYTHING will help since I removed the transmission and engine 3 months ago and wasnt aware to look for this on removal. I took the shift rods off the transmission by removing the nuts at the shift point on the side of the transmission so as not to come out of adjustment. Thaks in advance.
The service manual explains it really well. There is a gauge that you can make up to insert into the shifter to hold it in the correct location while you adjust the rods.
Bottom line. If you didn't change the adjustment of the rods. And you put it back together as it came apart. You really should be fine. I've had my trans out a couple times. Removed the rods as you did. Never had a problem.
If, you do have an issue once together. Then worry about readjustment.
The service manual explains it really well. There is a gauge that you can make up to insert into the shifter to hold it in the correct location while you adjust the rods.
Bottom line. If you didn't change the adjustment of the rods. And you put it back together as it came apart. You really should be fine. I've had my trans out a couple times. Removed the rods as you did. Never had a problem.
If, you do have an issue once together. Then worry about readjustment.
Thats what I had imagined. I didn’t want to cause any adjustment issues. Sounds like I made a great decision. Well, 2 great decisions. How to remove the shifter rods, and joining a community that supports others.
Thank you for your response
You need to make a small tool to line up the gates to a neutural position then leave the tool in and adjust the rod length to the shifter levers on the transmission. The whole procedure is in the AIM.
This is on my '71 stock 4-speed shifter for my Muncie:
Here is a drawing of what the tool is. I had mine made up many years ago and have used it a couple of times. It works well but is a pain to get it in place. Originally had a small handle on it, but removed the handle and ran a cord through the hole to make it easier to remove.
You might invent some new words trying to get it inserted in place.
I made mine out of some sheet aluminum I had laying around. Don't know where it is anymore. Never needed it again after I rebuilt my shifter. Also check your transmission levers to see if they have two holes where the rods connect to. If so the inner most holes are for "short shift" application. That's how mine is setup and it makes a big difference. It's even mentioned in the '71's owners manual. Not sure if it's possible on a 77.
1977 C3 shifter rods
