UPDATE: I have 2 " headpipe TTI's with 3 1/2 " collectors going to a full 3" x-pipe exhaust all the way out the back with the '70 through the valance tips.
I discovered that the reverse rod was sitting on top of the driver's side exhaust pretty hard in fact. I'd say it needed an additional inch of clearance to not touch it, or I could move it inward to the centerline of the car an inch and clear the exhaust pipe. The 3 inch pipes are BIG, and having an "X" pipe didn't help matters as it starts heading towards the center of the car. Stock or other smaller types of exhaust and engine /header combo's likely won't not have this problem. It's those darn aftermarket parts!
I called Jamie and explained the situation, and asked him if it would be ok to heat the rod to bend it towards the center of the car enough to hang freely. He said go for it, so I did. I studied the part, chose my location for the bend and heated it up nice and red along about a 3/4" to 1" section a few inches down from where it connects on the shift mechanism, off the car of course. I carefully and slowly made my adjustment, let it cool down slowly and now it fits perfectly.
Remember, on this transmission the reverse gear lever is also the 5th gear lever, so it has to be right, and proper adjustment of all the rods on all Mopars is critical for smooth shifts and long component life.
I also have the 1970 reverse lock-out in my car and ordered an additional adjuster for the reverse rod from Brewer's, so I can hook it back up. The Passon unit does not have that feature as an integral part of the lever adjusting "pin", but it is easily added if you want it.
Most guys unhook it, because it likes to be adjusted just right too. I will have the part today and post some more pics of the above mentioned items. I wanted to keep the stock rods and adjusters with my transmission, as it matches the numbers on the block and can now safely rest in my basement with the original numbers block while I enjoy the car. I like power, and never felt the stock sixpack motors had enough for my tastes, besides, I didn't want to take a chance on hurting the numbers block.
These A-833's are a tough transmission! It held up to over 700 ft lbs of torque for several years with 325 50 15R Drag Radials and a McLeod Street Twin. That sure says something for Mother Mopar!
Aside from those two issues, the trans bolted in just as easy as a stocker. The speedo cable runs out the passenger-side, up over the top of the transmission near the scattershield and then follows the regular path. The reverse lockout light is in a perfect place. The fit and finish is impeccable! This is a first class unit!
As soon as I finish up some other chores, (I'm pulling a 3.23 Sure Grip out of my '48 and shipping it to Colorado, and installing a Dr Diff built 489 case 3.91's with TrueTra in preparation for a drive-line upgrade in that car)I will have my exhaust bolted up, rear valance installed and start breaking in the rear end gears, the rebuilt Street Twin and the Passon 5 speed. This is going to be good!
