1972 Canadian H-Code 340 Dart Swinger Special Resto - Finally started!

I have always wondered what that bracket was for, thanks for that info. I have been working on these cars for many years and I still learn new stuff! I am thinking all my manual trans cars have had this as you mentioned. My 1970 Duster 340 4spd bucket seat car had it, my 1970 Duster 340 3spd bench had it and my 72 Demon /6 3spd bench had it. My bucket seat car is in storage but next time I am there I will have a look but I seem to remember the bracket not sticking up as far, is it possible the bucket seat cars got hammered down on the assembly line?