While getting ready to adjust my shift links and rods, I noticed something strange with my setup. Having watched this topic before, I had seen diagrams that show the shift linkages for a Task Force truck as including a bellcrank on the bell housing and two levers on the side of the 3-speed transmission. Looking at mine, I see no bellcrank, and it appears someone has done a hack job of getting whatever parts he had laying around to fit. Most of this truck seems to have been rebuilt using lawn mower parts of one type or another over time…

Here's the shift box
http://i1195.photobucket.com/albums/aa397/fourbrads/57%20chevy/DSC03330.jpg

The shift rods…
http://i1195.photobucket.com/albums/aa397/fourbrads/57%20chevy/DSC03332.jpg

And the levers on the side of my 3-speed.
http://i1195.photobucket.com/albums/aa397/fourbrads/57%20chevy/DSC02748.jpg

My truck has a BW OD unit that has been disconnected mechanically and electrically by one of the POs. Something probably broke and the PO simply bypassed it by unplugging everything. I would like to get it running again, but first, I need to address this nightmare of a baling-wire job on the trans shift levers.

One of the levers appears to have been welded (and screwed) to the connector shaft on the side of the trans.
http://i1195.photobucket.com/albums/aa397/fourbrads/57%20chevy/DSC02750.jpg


Can anyone tell me how best to sort this? Do I need replacement rods and levers (and a bellcrank)? Suggestions are most welcome. I want to fix this in a way that I can later restore my BW OD to working order and do proper adjustments on the shifter box..

Thanks,

Jim

1957 Chevrolet 3100 Stepside
235, 3-speed w/OD
In the Stovebolt Gallery