Shifter Removal

[Harrison]

How do I go about removing the push-button shifter from my '63 Dart? I've already got the dash out, but I can't figure out how to remove the shifter. I think I have to remove the shifter plate to do it, but I can't find the button to push to release the light switch.

It's kinda odd, the service manual covers removing the instrument cluster, but not the shifter. =/

 

[Dartnewbie]

On the back side of the headlight switch will be a small release button. You need to hold this button in all the way while you pull the switch knob and rod out of the switch. Helps if you pull the switch to the headlights on position first and then depress the button and pull. The wiper switch has an allen head set screw on the bottom to take the knob off. It's much easier to get to once the headlight knob is out. Each switch has a threaded bezel nut that hold them to the dash and in turn the shifter plate to the front of the dash. Unscrew these bezel nuts with a pair of needle nose pliers in the grooves and try to avoid scratching the inside of the shifter bezel. Once the bezel nuts are off, each switch will push out through the back. Remove the 2 screws holding the shifter plate on and it should pop right off. The shifter has three screws mounting it to the dash. The parking cable bracket must be removed from the shifter but the shifter cable will pop off once you remove the tiny retaining clip. The orange wire is for the button light and runs all the way to the fusebox.

 

[Harrison]

Anyone have any tips for removing the pins that hold the cables in place? The last one (left side when facing it) is in a really hard to reach spot.

 

[Dartnewbie]

It is much easier once the shifter is loose from the dash. The left cable is the parking cable and should be removed by unbolting the bracket from the shifter after you remove the pin that holds the end to the parking lever pivot. The right cable is the shift cable and can be taken off the shifter when you remove the tiny little clip that holds the end on. Its not really easy but get your head under there with a light and you can see what to do. Again this is easier when the shifter is unbolted first and you can kind of twist it around under the dash.