Need a sure-fire method
 

Does anyone have a sure-fire method to prevent the locking pin (connects floor shift handle to trans cover top), from falling into the darken depths of the transmission when the handle is removed? This has happen a couple of times to me and it is no longer "fun" to retrieve it.:mad:

Thanks

Tom

Re: Need a sure-fire method
 

Hold a strong magnet on the edge of housing?

Re: Need a sure-fire method
 

Sure fire: Don't separate the shaft from the housing. Take off the complete assembly.

Re: Need a sure-fire method
 

after you unscrew & remove the cap. use a small screwdriver down the slot in the shift lever to push it out into your hand

Re: Need a sure-fire method
 

Tom,
My preference is to open the 1/4"dia hole enough oversize to make it
reasonably round then turn up an oversize pin from oil hardening steel. I size the
new pin for a stiff tap fit. It's not a quick fix but it is a good repair and the big
benefit is the shift stick no longer wallows around in the tower.
Charlie ny

Re: Need a sure-fire method
 

Donald-

Your suggestion seemed simple enough so I gave it a try. Using a micro screwdriver the pin came out just as you suggested! Often the simplest solutions are the best! :) Thanks for the help!

Tom

Re: Need a sure-fire method
 

Charlie-

I liked your idea and it seems that it also would reduced gearshift slop but I am rather hesitant attempting it while the cover is still attached to the trans which is under the floor pan. This sounds like a good "bench idea" which I will probably will end up doing the next time I have things more apart. Thanks!

Tom

Re: Need a sure-fire method
 

The problem is your shifter housing is far too clean. You need a thick coating of filth and rust to lock that pin in place :).

Re: Need a sure-fire method
 

Didn't ford have a part number for that as well?...lol

Re: Need a sure-fire method
 

How does it fall in the shifter goes in then the pin, from memory the pin has no way of getting down into the box.. How do you withdraw the shifter without removing it totally?

Re: Need a sure-fire method
 

It's a slip fit and if not careful it's very easy for it to fall into the tranny, especially if you're a newbi and don't know it's there............
Paul in CT

Re: Need a sure-fire method
 

Murphys Law: if it can fall, it will & it will take 2 hours with a magnetic wand to retrieve it......

Re: Need a sure-fire method
 

Locktite!!!!!!!