Author Topic: How do I remove my pistol grip shifter arm from the shift mechanism???  (Read 4204 times)

Offline elevenssc

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The manual says to use a 0.010" feeler gauge and slide it down the driver side of the shifter to unlock the spring loaded retainers.  I've tried this with no success yet:pullinghair:  What am I doing wrong???

I'm pulling the engine and tranny for some winter projects and need to get the shifter disconnected from the linkage...but how???

Thaks for the help.




Offline Changin Gears

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Re: How do I remove my pistol grip shifter arm from the shift mechanism???
« Reply #1 on: November 20, 2009 - 05:54:21 PM »
That's the method unless it's the bolt on handle version.  The feeler gauge goes right up against the shifter handle and slides in about an inch.


The goal never changes - Stop the 60' timer with your back tires

Offline elevenssc

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Re: How do I remove my pistol grip shifter arm from the shift mechanism???
« Reply #2 on: November 20, 2009 - 05:58:52 PM »
Thanks...

Here's a silly question...How do I know if I have the bolt in version?

There is a bolt that runs front to back that is in line with the shifter...is this the bolt?

Offline Changin Gears

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Re: How do I remove my pistol grip shifter arm from the shift mechanism???
« Reply #3 on: November 20, 2009 - 06:01:57 PM »
Doesn't sound like you have the bolt on version.  A bolt on will have two 9/16 headed bolts directly below where the shifter handle enters the shifter on the right side.


The goal never changes - Stop the 60' timer with your back tires

Offline elevenssc

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Re: How do I remove my pistol grip shifter arm from the shift mechanism???
« Reply #4 on: November 20, 2009 - 06:05:02 PM »
No bolts on my shifter...

Guess I'll have to wrestle with the feeler gauge...any tips to make it easier???

Thanks

Offline Changin Gears

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Re: How do I remove my pistol grip shifter arm from the shift mechanism???
« Reply #5 on: November 20, 2009 - 06:44:54 PM »
Lots of wiggling, sometimes you have to get physical with it.


The goal never changes - Stop the 60' timer with your back tires

Offline ksierens

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Re: How do I remove my pistol grip shifter arm from the shift mechanism???
« Reply #6 on: November 20, 2009 - 07:28:21 PM »
Yup, maybe a little wd-40, but you will probably have to pull up pretty hard to get it out.
1970 Triple Black Challenger R/T  440 Six Pack - 4 Speed - 3.55 Dana
Kurt - SE Michigan

Offline CHL2T

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Re: How do I remove my pistol grip shifter arm from the shift mechanism???
« Reply #7 on: November 20, 2009 - 09:56:33 PM »
I too have had no luck with the feeler gauge method. I have found success buy cutting a tin shingle to the correct width and about 3 inches long with a rounded end, fold the top a few times to give yourself something to tap on. Insert, tap in, wiggle shifter free  :2thumbs:

Offline 72rtchallenger

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Re: How do I remove my pistol grip shifter arm from the shift mechanism???
« Reply #8 on: November 20, 2009 - 10:06:37 PM »
I too have had no luck with the feeler gauge method. I have found success buy cutting a tin shingle to the correct width and about 3 inches long with a rounded end, fold the top a few times to give yourself something to tap on. Insert, tap in, wiggle shifter free  :2thumbs:
:iagree: filler gauge does work but as these cars go not on all,and there alot older,find something alittle thicker and as descirbed above it should come free,,take your time as i ran into the same problem but eventually got it free
72rtchallenger
my challengers restro at http://www.cardomain.com/ride/399010
what happens in the garage
stays in the garage

Offline 73EStroker

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Re: How do I remove my pistol grip shifter arm from the shift mechanism???
« Reply #9 on: November 20, 2009 - 10:12:17 PM »
Try something like a hacksaw blae but grind the teeth off first and smooth both edges round to prevent scratching the shift lever. Also do not hit the blade too hard as it will shatter
Barry (Salmon Arm)

Offline Moparal

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Re: How do I remove my pistol grip shifter arm from the shift mechanism???
« Reply #10 on: November 20, 2009 - 10:34:14 PM »
The feeler guage works good. It needs to be in the middle where the tap fits the slot. If you get to the side, it wont release. Just push it in and jerk up

Offline Chryco Psycho

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Re: How do I remove my pistol grip shifter arm from the shift mechanism???
« Reply #11 on: November 20, 2009 - 11:59:08 PM »
penetrating oil really helps

Challenger - You`ll wish You Hadn`t

Offline elevenssc

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Re: How do I remove my pistol grip shifter arm from the shift mechanism???
« Reply #12 on: November 21, 2009 - 12:24:23 PM »
Got it out!!! :woo:

A lot of patience and some elbow grease and it did come out.  Having the feeler gauge in the middle of the shifter is key!

Thanks all for your help and advice...this site rocks!!!

Offline Moparal

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Re: How do I remove my pistol grip shifter arm from the shift mechanism???
« Reply #13 on: November 21, 2009 - 06:12:29 PM »
Next time you will do it faster than eleven seconds :bigsmile:  WTG :2thumbs: