Wrenchbender, thanks for that information. I will look into the 55.2 and later column shift parts to see what might fit onto my 53 column shifter. Might also be able to put the whole column shifter and shift arms on my 53 column.
ttodd, I appreciate what you are saying and it may be the way I eventually go when all else is found not to work, but I really don't want to get back into R&R of major components until there is no other alternative. I think I'd try drill,tap and running a stud into the newer bellhousing before switching back to the earlier bellhousing and dealing with trying to setup left hand hydraulic clutch slave cyl. etc.
Anyway, thanks guys for taking the time to give this some consideration. It helps to have other views/ideas.
Jerry
