exhaust clearence issues

i just installed a set of hooker long tubes on a friends 1976 maverick. WOW what a tight fit. we got the everything clearenced, like the steering and a few other spots. now im trying to figure out how the linkage that goes from the steering column to the transmission is going to work. any help on what to do?

 

It wont...You need to go to a floor shift setup or fab a cable operated column set up.

 

it is a floor shift. but it has a linkage that goes up to the steering. not sure what its for. it has two linkages

 

I believe that's called the column shift lockout rod. I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong.
http://mmb.maverick.to/showthread.php?t=81113&highlight=column+lock+rod

 

thats it. from looking at the picture on the link you posted. can i be used with longtubes? as of right now i dont see a way.

 

That I am not sure of... There is apparently a difference between the 6cylinder and V8 rods tho.
http://mmb.maverick.to/showthread.php?t=81056&highlight=column+lock+rod

In post #6 it looks like they have it installed with header, but can't tell if they are long tubes or not..
I'm sure someone will chime in who's actually had a factory floor shift b4

 

my next ?, does it have to be used? or can we leave it off.

 

Mine is off.. Been a while but I think I had to wire it in the neutral position to be able to start it. It's dangerous cause it can start in gear if I recall..
How about the kick down rod? what did you do for that?

 

Took this from the first link I posted
* If you plan on using the Throttle Kickdown setup, some Very Special Modifications might have to be done to the Throttle Kick Down Setup, if you plan on having Headers on your V8 engine.
I'm not sure the Factory Kickdown setup will fit with Headers, without Modifying the Kickdown Rod and Lever.

As far as the lockout rod... Idk on a factory floor shift. Seems the cable shift guys wire that piece at the end of the column up into the park position, but I don't know how that factory rod is intended to function....

 

thats next on the list.

 

Would the Lokar cable setup work on a factory floor shift? Might be an option..

 

You don't need that column linkage. You need a neutral safety switch designed to work with the floor-shifter. Just make sure you don't shut off the key while driving, or the steering wheel will lock.

 

As for the shifter, I don't think factory/after market is relevent. I have a B&M and Lokar. Problem is that It's been on for years and I still have not had the pleasure of trying it . Alot of guys here use it..