I'm going to convert the column shifter in my 72 Skylark to a floor shifter. I plan to use the stock steering column by eliminating the shifter and filling the collar so it cosmetically looks like an original floor shift column. I have all the center console parts I need for the interior side of things. Has anyone done this job or know of a good resource that outlines what changes need to be made to the floor, other parts that will be needed to mate everything to the transmission, etc. I'm going to be replacing the transmission with a 700R4/4L60. Any suggestions on vendors that I can find the hardware I need?
Shiftworks makes what you are looking for. I used their kit to get my floor shift working perfectly with my 200-4R. Should be comparable with the 700-R4. I even used the 68-69 console decal on my 70 shift pattern to show the shift positions. I had to make my own neutral safety switch. On the column shift conversion, I've done several of those with tilt-wheel columns for floor shifts. I have an actual non-tilt floor shift column in my spare parts.
I have managed to do the conversion in both directions using parts from a donor car. Do check out how the neutral switch is to be done, which prevents starting the engine in gear. Bruce Roe
I took a GN neutral start switch, removed the old back/mounting part and JB Welded it to the backing of my original switch so I could mount it like the original.
Since the car is originally an auto transmission car, I assume the the trans tunnel will accommodate the center console and can be opened for the shifter cable without having to patch in a new section like you would if going to a manual transmission, correct?
Yes, you just need about 1.5-2" hole for the shifter cable. The grommet is the size hole you need and it may be a little farther forward than you might think. Someone may have their carpet out and can give you measurements.
There is a post with measurements for the shifter. I’m not sure who posted it but I used the measurements to convert my column shift to floor shift. I used my back-shift rod ( I think that’s what it is called) so the shift needle in the dash indicates the gear selection and allows you to use the neutral safety switch on the column, instead of rewiring it to the floor shift.
The trouble is even if you use the back drive to run the column, R and N will be off. You might be able to get R working but I doubt you'll get it to start in N if R works.
