For my 10 speed Roadranger in my 48 I am planning to forge a stainless shifter. Start with a larger rod and taper it like the original, probably start with 3/4" and taper to 3/8". Leaving it so it looks forged, but with no scale, and no paint.
Grigg

•1951 GMC 250 in the Project Journals
•1948 Chevrolet 6400 - Detroit Diesel 4-53T - Roadranger 10 speed overdrive - 4 wheel disc brakes
•1952 Chevrolet 3800 pickup
---All pictures---
"First, get a clear notion of what you desire to accomplish, and then in all probability you will succeed in doing it..." -Henry Maudslay-