1968 18hp shifter rod connector

[alumachris]

Having problem getting bottom bolt to start in the connecting block. Checked the hole is open and clear (shaft is all the way up in) but cant get the bolt to start. i have connected it twice before with minimal cursing but this time it's a pain. is there any tricks of the trade/ something i'm forgetting?
Thanks

 

[lindy46]

Re: 1968 18hp shifter rod connector

Make sure the indent in the shift rod lines up perfectly with the hole in the coupler, or the bolt will be difficult to get through, and you'll strip the threads on the bolt.

 

[alumachris]

Re: 1968 18hp shifter rod connector

thanks indy, it appears that the indent is lined up, i even used a small philips to make sure it was ligned up. still giving me fits. i was just wondering if there is any tricks to the trade here

 

[lindy46]

Re: 1968 18hp shifter rod connector

Bolt should go in then - you do have the threaded side of the coupler on the back side? The bolt should easily pass through the unthreaded side, past the shift rod and into the threaded side of the coupler.

 

[Daviet]

Re: 1968 18hp shifter rod connector

If you have the coupler spread apart, opened up, to much the threads will not line up with the the blank hole and the bolt will not start properly.

 

[alumachris]

Re: 1968 18hp shifter rod connector

Thanks fellas (BTW my appoligies to lindy for misspelling your callsign). Finally got it together. carefull inspection of the bolt showed some tiny burrs so, i cleaned it up with a 1/4 / 28 die and correspond tap through coupling block. bolt threaded right in. only problem is i manaaged to drop the lock washer down inside during all this wrestling around. i did replace it but i didnt fish the original out. hope it doesnt cause any probs cause i aint pulling it back apart any time soon. thanks again guys. chris out