Have any of you used a shifter cable on a stock column shifter? I know Lokar makes them for GM column's but not Fords and I would like to retain the one in the Fairlane, the cable would be more precise than the factory linkage. Has anyone fabricated there own?
I believe here is a cable kit for Fords also. But what is keeping you from adapting a shifter rod like stock? I just went back to column shift on my 57. If you are using column shift the gear selector tab should be facing down. Also you need to have some of the linkage on you column. Then just adapt a 3/8 rod. Some connections need a bellcrank. Even with the cable style it would work out better if the gear selector tab is in the down position. Also note that those kits take the spot where the NSS is on the tranny. So you may want to just change out out that tab to the correct one. FYI. It helps if you states what engine/tranny combo you got. Most Fords are Converted to AOD or C4 I see what you are saying about the GM one. If you have your original column with the shifter linkage it helps. it is much easier making the rod style thank a cable version. But it is also a time vs money. By the time you figured it out. You might as well bought the thing unless….
I am using a 57 Ford column to a 350 TH in my model A. I like the looks of a column with exposed shifter, so have us4d them often. After shortening the unit I placed the shift lever on the opposite side of the column as clearance is tight. Purchased a B&M cable on line, ran it in a loop from shift arm on the column, to the rear of trans and back to the shift arm on the trans. Couple of brackets, to hold the adjustments on both ends and your done. You can make the shift pattern either way you want, park on top or on bottom. Just depends on your trans shifter arm placement.
Flexible morse cables are readily available, correct geometry is the key both at column and transmission. A rod with heim joints either end only needs to be bent to the correct profile to work. I'm using the OEM Hydramatic column in my 46 Olds and adapting it to a 700R and need to add another detent for [New] park position. CPP offer a shift arm kit https://www.hotrod.com/articles/heres-how-to-hook-up-a-later-model-transmission-an-early-chevy/
https://www.ididitinc.com/i-25049859-cable-shift-linkage-2-1-4-ford-column-c4-transmission.html A rebushed factory setup works better IMHO
My 64 has a bellcrank in the middle of the linkage going down, it's always felt vague shifting it. Also my new block isn't machined for the bellcrank mount witch I believe you can buy a bracket for. I do like the idea of a solid rod with heim joint ends.
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