5.3 swap shift linkage ?

[Mtrhd329]

I have a 79 that i just swapped a 01 5.3/4l60e into and i am having problems getting the shifting linkage to work properly. I keep reading that minor tweaking was needed to get it to work properly but nowhere can i find what that tweaking was. My issue is that i cant get past nuetral from the column. I look down to the linkage and the rod that goes from the column to the little arm that hooks to the frame is hitting the frame. I am thinking that i can just bend it a little bit but wanted to see if any one else here had any ideas.

[RedHeartbeat]

Two choices...
1.) shorten the linkage so that the lever part of the linkage is further away from the frame
2.) replace the shift linkage rod going into the transmission with one from an earlier model 60e that is shorter

[Shon Herron]

What set up are you using?
I am using the Lokar rod with my 71/6.0/4L80 swap, i can not pull past 3rd on the column b/c of the angle of the linkage and hitting the headers but I am OK with that.

[Mtrhd329]

I am using the stick th350 linkage in a 79. fits fine just wont "click" past neutral. I can force it down a little to get into drive but there is resistance from the rod hitting the frame and it looks like it is trying to twist sideways instead of pushing the lever down. Must be something i can do with a different angle i guess?

[RedHeartbeat]

sounds like the pivot end of the rod is too far in towards the frame. Shorten the rod on the transmission side of the bracket.

[Shon Herron]

Note too, the A4 has different lengths between gears compared to the TH350.
In my truck P is P, but OD is N on the display.

[Mtrhd329]

Redheartbeat- I played with the rod and it is as short as it can go.

Shon Herron- So would a different linkage work then.