What are your thoughts on removing the console and returning it to origional?
I think column shifts are unique + they save weight (no console, shifter/linkage, console brackets, etc). Speaking from experience of owning an original column shift bucket seat car, I removed my column. I purchased bucket seats as someone put a bench in and removed the original buckets sometime in the early 80s. I purchased a brand new 70 column for a floor shift, console and shifter set up. I think columns are cool BUT I prefer to shift. With a tilt pistol grip in place it sure does triple the fun factor.
I use the shifter (pictured below) often, slap it in 2nd around town and let the 440 burble down the rpm range, hills, engine braking, good fun. Plus it gives the car and interior the muscle car image it so deserves. For the record my car is also a #'s matching U code but I build my cars for me, modern touches but stock appearing. If you're going for all out fun, go
Slap-Stik 100%, if you're going for a factory correct car, stick with what Ma-MoPar gave you. Your call so do what makes you happy.
