A Few Questions About Floor Shift Install

[1969VADart]

As I get ready to install the pieces for my floor shift conversion, I have a few questions.

1. When installing the console, does the carpet in the floor completely cover the hump under the console, or is it bare metal with the carpet just wrapping up on the sides of the console?

2. Is there a specific screw that needs to be used to secure the console to the mounting brackets, or can I just use any kind of screw/washer from a hardware store?

3. What specific tool did you use to drill out the floor in the side of the hump where the steering linkage goes through the floor?

4. When replacing the steering column, is there anything specific I should look out for when removing the column shift linkage? Is this a very difficult step?

5. Is removing the steering column as easy as disconnecting the steering coupler, unbolting it from the firewall and under the dash, and pulling it out?

Would appreciate any comments, feedback, and recommendations. Thanks.

 

[RedFish]

If you have carpet now.... Most OEM and aftermarket insulation is perforated or cut away for the console install even though the carpet isn't cut. That would serve as a guide.
I think the 4 OEM screws were oval head Phillips like the one securing the fuse box.
Any #10 with a decent size head will work.

I used a drill and hole saw to cut the hole for the down linkage. I didn't have the diameter hole saw needed so I cut 2 smaller intersecting holes.

Set the steering straight ahead so master splines are on the top. Drive the split pin out of the coupling. Use a pickle fork or something to remove the coupling from the gearbox shaft. If you were to yank the steering wheel/column you would likely just rip the box coupling apart. You don't want to disturb the cap on that coupling if you don't have to.

 

[1969VADart]

Thanks RedFish. Is there anything I need to look out for with regards to the column shift linkage or is it a pretty simple disconnect?

 

[RedFish]

You should remove all of the column shift linkage rather than just disconnect and leave dangling.
Disconnect the neg battery cable. That's all I got......

 

[1969VADart]

Okay. Thanks again for the input. I guess I was just wondering if there is much (many pieces) to the column shift linkage. I should be able to figure it out. Fortunately, I also have the service manual as a reference.