70 "ball" auto shifter v. 71-4 T-handle auto shifter

Posted By: skh

70 "ball" auto shifter v. 71-4 T-handle auto shifter - 04/21/14 10:17 PM

Does anyone know the differences between the mechanicals of these two Torqueflite shifter handles used in B and E body cars from 1970-74?

I ask because I have a 1973 Charger that will not shift down into first, but has 1970s style "ball" handle instead of the proper 1973 T-handle shifter. I am wondering whether I have an incompatible shift handle with the wrong mechanicals below.

Any help?

Posted By: denfireguy

Re: 70 "ball" auto shifter v. 71-4 T-handle auto shifter - 04/21/14 10:31 PM

With the T shifter, if there is interference preventing you from going into first, you can remove it and eliminate the shifter handle from the equation. With the handle out, there is much more available movement on the shifter handle.
If it is the linkage out of adjustment, there are sometimes other symptoms such as not locking in park, reverse lights in neutral or park, starting while in gear, etc.
Craig

Posted By: skh

Re: 70 "ball" auto shifter v. 71-4 T-handle auto shifter - 04/21/14 10:34 PM

The car currently has the ball shifter, which does not go into first. (Not the T shifter.)

Posted By: 318 Stroker

Re: 70 "ball" auto shifter v. 71-4 T-handle auto shifter - 04/21/14 10:50 PM

Quote:

Does anyone know the differences between the mechanicals of these two Torqueflite shifter handles used in B and E body cars from 1970-74?

I ask because I have a 1973 Charger that will not shift down into first, but has 1970s style "ball" handle instead of the proper 1973 T-handle shifter. I am wondering whether I have an incompatible shift handle with the wrong mechanicals below.

Any help?

My t-handle shifter was not working properly. It did not have your symptoms, but was still not working properly. I removed it from the car, and discovered that it was caked with dirt, grime, grease and dust. After a thorough cleaning, it now works perfectly. You may want to try cleaning it. Won't cost you anything to try, and it's easy enough to remove from the car.

Posted By: screamindriver

Re: 70 "ball" auto shifter v. 71-4 T-handle auto shifter - 04/22/14 01:21 AM

Which "ball" shifter do you have ??? The later "ball" shifters {started in 74 or 75 might be out of a cordoba or magnum} are'nt exactly like the early units.. Stalk is longer and possibly smaller diameter which brings us to the next fact...Generally the "T" handle shifter stalk is squared up and the ball shifters have the round stalks...I don't think one would fit the other without some mods..

Make sure the ball is all the way down on the stalk so the button depresses completely...There's a small set screw on the ball fixture loosen it up..Push the ball down then retighten and see if that helps...If not check the linkage for proper adjustment or slop...