Console shifter

[Hugh]

I am trying to put a repop automatic shifter handle on my 73 Satellite that I am converting to console shift. The t handle shifter seemed way too long and I could not get the screw in. After I shortened the handle by trimming it on my belt sander the screw goes right in but the bottom of the handle is binding on the plastic slider piece and I can not get it into park or first. I hate to trim too much off! Anyone have experience with this? Does part of the metal shifter show under the plastic handle when In park?

[Hugh]

Got in on but I had to shorten the shifter more. The instructions said to put it in park and then thread the screw in. It also said on 1971 cars the screw hole may need to be enlarged slightly. An understatement on my car! The shifter may have been from a 1971, but the screw hole wasn't even visible when in park. I could have drilled a brand new hole beneath the existing one, that's how far it was off! I may have hurt myself by shortening the shift handle but only time will tell. If I had a complete new handle, knowing what I know now, my options would be to shorten the shifter like I did or drill a new mounting hole. Darn repops!!!!

[Hugh]

Real dumb question, but is it possible my shifter and sliding plate came from a 1970 e body? I say this because I just saw a pic of the t handle shifter and it looked like it went into the sliding plate which also is your prnd21 indicator. My sliding plate was a little closer to the steel shifter handle body so my t handle shifter wouldn't go inside or therefore below it. A round knob style shifter would be more ideal with this sliding cover plate. Does anyone have a t handle shifter that goes through the sliding plate? Mine was binding up because it was hitting the top of the plate and putting pressure on it.

[Eric]

The black cover plate for a T handle does have an oblong almost rectangular opening and the handle fits down into. I believe the ball type handle plate has a more round opening. Sorry, no pictures handy...I can take one tomorrow if needed.

[Hugh]

Thanks Eric, I found a picture of an original b body t handle with plate on eBay and sure enough the t handle goes through the slider plate about one half inch and that is about how much I had to shorten my shifter. I bought another t handle and I think I can modify the slider plate with a fine file to get the handle to go through. If not I can always buy a repop slider plate. Live and learn!
Update: just bought a new slider. Eric, you are definitely right about the two hole types and mine is round. The new plate I just purchased was rectangular. Problem solved!