I'm working on putting the original 3-speed column shift back into my 1957 3100. At some point the truck was converted to a floor shifter, but it appears to have originally been a 3-on-the-tree truck. The column still has the mounting holes for the shifter parts, the firewall plates have the openings for the shift shaft mechanism, and the truck still has what appears to be the original 3-speed transmission.
I've collected quite a few original column-shift parts from eBay. The pictures show what I currently have: the column shift lever and upper shaft, the shift box/mechanism and lower shaft, and the two transmission shift rods with their clamps.
I know I'm missing the coupling that connects the upper and lower shift shafts. Both of my shafts have the offset transverse relief/hole near the end and serrations on the opposite side. I've included a picture of a similar coupling from a 1949-52 setup to show the type of part I'm looking for. I realize the earlier part may not be identical to the 1957 version.
Does anyone know of a source for this link? Does anyone know whether the earlier style shown will work, or whether Chevrolet used the same or a compatible coupling on another car or truck application?
Also, looking at the parts I have in the pictures, what else am I missing to put the complete factory column-shift system back together? I'm especially interested in any bushings, springs, clips, brackets, hardware, or other small pieces that aren't obvious until you actually assemble one.
Does anyone have factory adjustment information or a good procedure for setting up the shift box and transmission rods? I'd like to clean/rebuild everything, replace any worn bushings, and adjust it correctly rather than just bolt it together and hope for the best.
I also know a lot of these trucks were converted from the original 3-on-the-tree to floor shifters over the years. Was there a particular weakness or problem with the original column-shift setup that caused so many people to get rid of it? Were there specific bushings, linkage parts, or parts of the shift box that commonly wore out and caused binding, missed shifts, or getting stuck between gears?
If the original system works well when everything is tight and properly adjusted, I'd really like to put mine back that way. I think the 3-on-the-tree is pretty cool and is part of the character of the truck.
Thanks for any pictures, parts leads, measurements, adjustment information, or advice.
