71 cuda auto shifter T handle

[culp71]

tried to installed the T "slap stick" handle in 71 cuda, but the button does not spring back out once pressed in, with handle removed everything works. it is a new "reproduction" handle. is there anything to check, adjust, or grease? to allow button to slide in and out smoothly?

[culp71]

removed handle, all functions correctly, as soon as t handle is slid down onto shaft something binds and prevents button from moving, any thoughts?

[1 Wild R/T]

Try pulling some lube on the area where the button & rod contact each other...

[culp71]

I did try that yesterday evening...no change, but I looked really closely and noticed when I slide the handle down just before it reaches the set screw hole, you can watch the button get pushed back,(towards back of car) causing the button itself to no longer sits in the center of the handle hole opening...

[burdar]

Post a photo of the shifter shaft and of the T-handle itself.   You might have to take apart the T-handle and inspect.

There where two different styles of T-handle used in 71.  I assume they use the same shifter though.  Just the plastic slide in the gear selector was different.

[culp71]

will do, thank you.

[AARTA340]

I had similar issues when replacing mine. Not sure what I actually did, but remember when I first installed the new one, it was doing as you described. Took it off and looked at it and it seemed it should work, but it still was not cooperating. If memory is correct, I had to use a small screwdriver to position the mechanism inside the shifter handle so it would fit on the metal shifter and align with the small pin that the button pushes down. And yes, lube the shifter.

[culp71]

alright here a bunch of pic I took last night hope they will help to figure out
why once T handle is installed, then button pushed in, will stay in no matter what position shifter is moved to, once I remove the set screw in handle it springs up and about 1/4" and functions fine.

[culp71]

still no resolve on this shifter issue.
I am contemplating ordering another T handle from a different source as last one...

[burdar]

It would be nice if you were able to test an original handle.  Is there anyone around you that would have one you could test?  Have you tried disassembling the handle you have?

What are the chances that your attaching screw is too long?  If it's too long, it could touch the center rod...keeping it from moving freely.

[aarcuda33]

You have a 72 and later  T handle not  a 71 T handle but I don't know if that is the cause of your issue . I don't think that would  create your problem they should interchange

[burdar]

I'm not sure how long they used the first style T handle but I think some 71's got the updated design.

[anlauto]

What are the chances that your attaching screw is too long?  If it's too long, it could touch the center rod...keeping it from moving freely.

Weird...That's exactly what I was going to say, but I thought nobody could over look that....

[culp71]

not sure still what's going on here, unable to figure out how to take current handle apart with out damage so I ordered  another new 71 style T handle, hoping it functions correctly.

[anlauto]

Did you check the length of the screw ?