As some of us know, the arms of the shifter box on the steering column can hit the rear of the Offenhauser intake (especially on a 261). Most notably, the rear arm which is sometimes longer than the front arm. I ordered a rebuilt shift box from JC which came in with two long arms. I, and my machinist neighbor, are planning to shorten the arms to clear the manifold and then drill out new openings for the rod clamps. My neighbor is going to make and silver solder in new sleeve holders for the rubber/plastic bushings. He asked me if shortening the arms will change the ability of the tranny to shift properly. I replied that the box is basically stupid and as long as the shifter rods are long enough to be clamped down in the arm clamps and don't strike anything in their up and down motion, all should be well. Sound right or am I missing something or am I the stupid one?
