three on the tree removal

[Smarty6]

I was just cleaning up the engine compartment of my 71 and noticed that the p.o. just tied the shift linkage of on the column together. Since it has the shifter on the floor now, can i just remove this and how do I do it? it also has the switch there too, its hooked up to something but what was the swithch for? it looks like maybe reverse lights or a starter safety switch? I tried searching for the answer but couldn't find the answers. thanks from a newby

 

[awol_today]

I was just cleaning up the engine compartment of my 71 and noticed that the p.o. just tied the shift linkage of on the column together. Since it has the shifter on the floor now, can i just remove this and how do I do it? it also has the switch there too, its hooked up to something but what was the swithch for? it looks like maybe reverse lights or a starter safety switch? I tried searching for the answer but couldn't find the answers. thanks from a newby

What a nice PO! I've never seen one tie those down before. You got the switch part right, it's for the backup lights. Somebody smart will probably answer how to get rid of the linkage. I'm pretty sure the answer won't be much fun, though.

 

[agent_orange_71]

Its not very hard to do, but it is kind of a PITA. the only way I know of to do it is just yank the steering column out and pull the wheel off, that will let the shaft slide out, then you can pull the shift tubes and arms out. Since youve got it apart you can replace the bearings/seals in the column and youll never have to worry about that column again. Since your shifter is on the floor you can put on a smooth collar, gives it a much cleaner look inside and out.

This link shows the column breakdown, it really is as simple as it looks.
http://broncograveyard.com/dia/6/clmdia.jpg

 

[70_Steve]

I pretty much did what agent_orange_71 said. I removed my column when I did my power steering install, so I could pull the steering shaft and install the u-joints. Figured while I had it out, I may as well rebuild it. I just disassembled the whole thing, got new bearings and a lower seal and reassembled it without the shift tubes. I made a cover out of some sheet metal, to seal up the hole in the column where the shift levers came out. Used a hose clamp to hold it in place. I just didn't want dirt getting into my newly rebuilt column.

 

[Smarty6]

well i guess i've got a little work to do. i was hoping someone had one of those nice "tricks", but i guess there is no easy way out of this one. thanks for the link it helps a lot.
smarty