4 speed colum

[FantaC]

Hi guys
            is there a 4 speed colum that would fit an FC and a all ozzie gear box  ???
thanks

[Jockster]

I don't know of any columns that are available, it would be a fairly difficult problem to engineer because of the position of the reverse shift linkage on the gear box. I helped a friend fit a 3 speed all synchro to an FE a while back and we used a HT 3 speed column (which matched the box) and it still hours of bending and shaping linkages to get it right. I think you may be better using a modified floor shift which will operate with the bench seat. I had one in mine and it worked aceptably but looked daggy. Eventually I went for buckets and a conventional shifter.
Cheers
Jock

[mcl1959]

The only suggestion I have is a few Jap small trucks (TOYOTA?) had 4 speed column shifts which may be able to be adapted.  These also have the collapsible column which is a must for engineering if you change the column from FE/FC.

[RET]

For what it's worth Mk I Cortina also had 4-speed column shift.  No idea whether it could be mated up to a Aussie 4 speed though.

RET

[Jockster]

There are quite a large number of 4 speed colums available from late model Jap vans, most are collapsible type with multi-purpose switches etc. It would not be hard to adapt  any one of these columns to an FC.

The problem lies with the linkage set up as all of the jap boxes have selectors on the right side of the box and a complex set of activating linkages.

The Holden 4-speed has its forward gear linkages on the right side of the box and its reverse shift linkage on the left rear, it would be extremely difficult to arrange a linkage which would reach this selector lever given the close fit of the gearbox to the floor pan.
Cheers
Jockster

[FantaC]

thanks for your replies guys
could i use a short cable for the reverse
and maybe have the linkages on the internal side
of the firewall
would love to keep the stock look, 3 on the tree

[Jockster]

Well if you are determined and have the time and patience to experiment, there is very little that can't be achieved in modifying a car. A cable sounds to be a good idea, but you would need to use a proper gearshift cable that will push and pull and be long enough and flexible enough to reach down to where you want it.
Good luck, hope it works out, I would be interested to see the completed article
Cheers
Jock

[stevo56]

Why couldn't you use the existing 3onthetree, and a separate lever for reverse.
First would be where reverse was, etc.
Not difficult. Surely.
Email me and we'll discuss this properly.
I'll even get off me ar2e and have a go at it for you.
You've got me intrigued enough to do it.
Steve