Convert Hurst push in to bolt in shifter? or new Comp +

[GearAddict]

My 69 RR was set up for bench style Hurst 4 speed, with the push in style handle. I am converting to console and have run into a few options, but would love some input.

1. Buy an original Hurts push in style console shifter for $200-500... not loving that

2. Buy Hurst Comp + console shifter and mech for $250ish... Appealing, all new maybe improves shifts, a little costly but in my budget. Not sure if I need the install kit which is another $100-135 (can I use my original linkage ext and bypass the kit?)

3. Buy a Hurst console shift lever, bolt in style for comp + and then drill into my original Hurst mechanism? Cost $100.... Can this be done? Should I even consider it? or just pull and sell my original to fund said Comp plus above?

 

[PlumcrazyRR]

There is also this piece that converts your push in style mechanism to the bolt in style, so you can keep your original shifter mechanism and use the new bolt in style handle if you would like to have that as an option also.

http://www.brewersperformance.com/proddetail.asp?prod=H0002

 

[GearAddict]

Thanks! I'll add that as option 4

4. Convert using Brewers part, plus new shift lever $200....maybe best of both worlds?

 

[HawkRod]

I say sell your push in style shifter lever and use that money to buy the new shifter and lever. From what I understand, the original push in style are worth some money. If that is true, then option 3 is not a good idea because you will be costing yourself money by modifying an original part.

Of course, that assumes that you find a buyer...

 

[GearAddict]

Thanks Hawk... That's the route I'm leaning.

Anyone know if there is a need to buy the linkage kit? Or will it bolt up as is without issue?

 

[HawkRod]

I thought the original Mopar push in "Hurst" shifters were the same as aftermarket Hurst shifters, but honestly, I am talking out of my a$$ and don't really know for sure.

Here are two pictures of my transmission. It has an old, but aftermarket Hurst shifter with the two bolt style lever. Maybe you can look at your linkage and see if it looks the same...

Hawk

 

[PlumcrazyRR]

I would like to help with an answer but my 70 RR shift rods are different than the 69 RR shift rods, so not too sure. Found that out the hard way already. So, I do not want to steer you in the wrong direction by thinking I know something that I probably do not. That has gotten me into trouble too many times already.

I can say I was going through all the same decisions you are about 4 months ago or so. After looking long and hard for a long extended period, I did stumble across an original slip in shifter handle for under $200. So I was able to use an original shifter mechanism. I was thinking about converting it to the bolt on type though in case I ever changed my mind and wanted to go back to the original type. If I converted it, then all I would have to do is change the parts back and I have the same original type shifter again. Only downside to that can be, if you have a loose shifter, it may need to be rebuilt.

 

[GearAddict]

Plum...I've seen a few slip in style ones around but not under $200 at the moment, otherwise I'd snag one and be done with it.

Thanks Hawk, I'll check mine out tomorrow, I think they are the same.

 

[PlumcrazyRR]

Plum...I've seen a few slip in style ones around but not under $200 at the moment, otherwise I'd snag one and be done with it.

Trust me, that wasn't easy to find. That was about 6-8 months worth of searching ebay, craigslist, swap meets, and other places. Luckily I have had the time to be a little patient on some items. Although, I was really close to converting it to the bolt on.

 

[GearAddict]

tried to snipe a good loking console shifter and mechanism last night for $200... jumped to $400 with 15 seconds left... I see a new Comp + in my future.

 

[PlumcrazyRR]

tried to snipe a good loking console shifter and mechanism last night for $200... jumped to $400 with 15 seconds left... I see a new Comp + in my future.

That happened to me several times and just when I was about to give up I stumbled across one. It was probably more dumb luck and someone not knowing what they had then anything else. Or maybe someone was feeling generous and decided to charge a reasonable price for a mopar part. Good luck with the hunt or whatever you decide to do.

 

[AMX364]

You can also use a different bolt on Hurst center pieces and convert that way. Did that about 1980's so do not remember having any issues with conversion. Might have drilled old handle but think that I just bought a new handle. Added reverse light switch also at that time.