3 Speed Column Rebuild - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

kursed · 02-24-2009, 05:43 PM

Well I've used the search function and the FAQ thread, still no luck. I've searched all the parts sites I can think of and so far all I can come up with are rebuilt whole columns for sale. I want to rebuild my column or another non tilt, 3 speed column.

Does ANYONE know where I might obtain the parts necessary to build this thing, or am I going to have to fab things myself? Anyone have any factory type exploded diagrams of the 3 on the tree column? Have any of you guys attempted this, and how did things turn out? I don't have the $$$ to drop on a new column at the moment, so that is OUT of the question, not even a rebuilt one. If anyone has pictures, the more the better, please post. If I do this in the near future I'll do a tech article on it when I'm done.

oldblue1968chevy · 02-24-2009, 06:31 PM

good luck i needed new bushings for mine..never found new ones..gonna have to use used ones instead...good luck!

cdowns · 02-24-2009, 06:35 PM

pay the
$25 to the board then post a wanted to buy in the classifieds//shouldnt b much problem coming up with a usable 3speed manual shift column

kursed · 02-24-2009, 07:56 PM

I'm getting offers for columns for sale from board members already. That's not the point though. There must be a way to rebuild, guess it's gonna get stripped this weekend and thrashed. Might still get one from a board member for the meantime, but it can't be but so hard to rebuild.

70 Suburban · 02-24-2009, 09:46 PM

wow drive that bus.....I would get a floor shift. I did away with my 3 speed long ago. used to hang up on me.

kursed · 02-24-2009, 10:14 PM

mine hangs up as well, and the shaft has fallen down into the column so far the wheel rubs the turn signal switch, I'll grab pics of that before I remove it. I like the 3 on the tree, and every truck I come across has been swapped to auto, all in personal preference.

70 Suburban · 02-24-2009, 10:18 PM

Thats what I took my first driving test in... I had a 66 short fleet...235 with 3 seed on colmn. im not sure about it but I would think you could weld on the tabs then grind them square. also the parts from an auto might work because they are the same till you get to the selectors.

PanelDeland · 02-24-2009, 10:19 PM

I haven't seen any info on rebuilding one that I recall.I do know the upper bearing can be worn enough to cause the drop down into the column you're talking about.Is that the only issue you are having or are you having shifting problems also?

kursed · 02-24-2009, 10:50 PM

shifting also, the two selector forks on the column keep coming out of alignment with the little piece in the middle. shifter locks up.

northerngmc · 02-24-2009, 11:11 PM

Not sure where or how you looked in the FAQ but I really like the FAQ Index Thread of Krue at http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=157669

In there I found a thread on 3 speed manual column adjustment. I used it on my 69 GMC and it really helped. http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=215307 There is a little talk in this thread about getting parts.

Good luck and please post what you find as there are a few of us that like the good old 3 in the three! I have yet to figure out why people move the shifter to the floor.

kursed · 02-25-2009, 06:06 AM

I missed the adjustment article, thanks for the link

PanelDeland · 02-25-2009, 01:49 PM

That's why I asked.Most people swap to a floor shift because they don't know to adjust their shifter.I like the 3 onna tree myself.

kursed · 02-28-2009, 09:15 AM

ok, i remember seeing someone that listed an upper bearing for sale, but can't remember what company it was, anyone know???

PanelDeland · 02-28-2009, 07:34 PM

I know Tim Christian sells them.I don't know if he has any in stock.You can chaeck his website for a # and call.He's listed with the BB vendors.

**oldgold70c10** · 02-28-2009, 08:15 PM

There are some excellent diagrams in the Factory service manual on the 3 speed columns. I found some places that sell new bushings, they are in the FAQ's and most of the vendors sell the bearings.

kursed · 03-01-2009, 08:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by PanelDeland

I know Tim Christian sells them.I don't know if he has any in stock.You can chaeck his website for a # and call.He's listed with the BB vendors.

is his shop "Christian's Classics" ? If so I don't see the bearings in his catalog but I'll call tomorrow.

kursed · 03-02-2009, 03:38 PM

Ok, I found a donor column, being shipped in so this refurb should get started in a week or so.

kursed · 03-21-2009, 07:04 PM

Ok this is what I've got so far. Striped the donor column down, got two bearings (upper and lower) and a seal. Waiting for a warm day to go outside and clean things up a bit (wife's not fond of fumes in the basement) and I still want to order a few more things.

What I started with

The turn signal switch was already gone, so I started with the horn contact ring

Then the top bearing

Removed these three bolts

Then carefully slide this wire cover off (long flat piece) mine took a tap or two with a big flat head screwdriver and a rubber mallet

kursed · 03-21-2009, 07:06 PM

Then these pieces should come off rather easily

A bushing and a washer

You should be left with an upper column that looks like this

Don't forget to clean out the bee's nest

Two small bolts to remove this switch (not sure what it's for yet)

kursed · 03-21-2009, 07:08 PM

On to the bottom

Two bolts to hold the bottom clamp onto the column, don't forget the bolt to loosen the clamp up a bit

Some wiggling and wobbling and the rest should come right out

kursed · 03-21-2009, 07:09 PM

New parts and a free sticker

northerngmc · 03-21-2009, 08:51 PM

Nice, I believe the switch is the back up (reverse) light switch.

kursed · 03-22-2009, 06:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by northerngmc

Nice, I believe the switch is the back up (reverse) light switch.

that's what I'm thinking, looking for a pick of a new one to verify or a parts explosion of the column.

DjS71 · 09-21-2010, 02:05 PM

Hey, um.... How did it turn out?

eightbanger · 09-21-2010, 05:30 PM

Yeah! really left hangin on this one, if this went well then Iam doing it.

02-24-2009, 05:43 PM	#1
kursed Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Augusta County, VA Posts: 146	3 Speed Column Rebuild Well I've used the search function and the FAQ thread, still no luck. I've searched all the parts sites I can think of and so far all I can come up with are rebuilt whole columns for sale. I want to rebuild my column or another non tilt, 3 speed column. Does ANYONE know where I might obtain the parts necessary to build this thing, or am I going to have to fab things myself? Anyone have any factory type exploded diagrams of the 3 on the tree column? Have any of you guys attempted this, and how did things turn out? I don't have the $$$ to drop on a new column at the moment, so that is OUT of the question, not even a rebuilt one. If anyone has pictures, the more the better, please post. If I do this in the near future I'll do a tech article on it when I'm done.

02-24-2009, 06:31 PM	#2
oldblue1968chevy Grandpa in the rustmobile... Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Spokane WA/Viola TN Posts: 11,422	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild good luck i needed new bushings for mine..never found new ones..gonna have to use used ones instead...good luck! __________________ John Goose-1968 C10 355,9.32-1CR, Vortec Heads ,262 voodoo, 3.73:1 3OTT (HS ride/beater/farm truck) http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=317684 Grams 53-1953 Chevrolet Belair http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...=1#post4327784 1969 Chevy C10 Shortbed 4.5/6?" Frame off resto http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=548136 1999 Toyota Tacoma 4x4

02-24-2009, 06:35 PM	#3
cdowns Senior Member Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: daytonabeach Posts: 22,956	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild pay the $25 to the board then post a wanted to buy in the classifieds//shouldnt b much problem coming up with a usable 3speed manual shift column __________________ 71c-10 350/2004r/4:11 lowered3/4 longbed/dead by hurricane MEANING OF DEATH::::: SOMEBODY ELSE GETS YOUR STUFF DONT BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU THINK TAKE MY ADVISE;I DON'T USE IT ANYWAY

02-24-2009, 07:56 PM	#4
kursed Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Augusta County, VA Posts: 146	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild I'm getting offers for columns for sale from board members already. That's not the point though. There must be a way to rebuild, guess it's gonna get stripped this weekend and thrashed. Might still get one from a board member for the meantime, but it can't be but so hard to rebuild.

02-24-2009, 09:46 PM	#5
70 Suburban Rods Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Bryan, TX Posts: 1,398	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild wow drive that bus.....I would get a floor shift. I did away with my 3 speed long ago. used to hang up on me.

02-24-2009, 10:14 PM	#6
kursed Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Augusta County, VA Posts: 146	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild mine hangs up as well, and the shaft has fallen down into the column so far the wheel rubs the turn signal switch, I'll grab pics of that before I remove it. I like the 3 on the tree, and every truck I come across has been swapped to auto, all in personal preference.

02-24-2009, 10:18 PM	#7
70 Suburban Rods Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Bryan, TX Posts: 1,398	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild Thats what I took my first driving test in... I had a 66 short fleet...235 with 3 seed on colmn. im not sure about it but I would think you could weld on the tabs then grind them square. also the parts from an auto might work because they are the same till you get to the selectors. Last edited by 70 Suburban; 02-24-2009 at 10:18 PM.

02-24-2009, 10:19 PM	#8
PanelDeland I am a Referee of life. Join Date: Jun 2000 Location: Greensboro N.C. Posts: 13,993	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild I haven't seen any info on rebuilding one that I recall.I do know the upper bearing can be worn enough to cause the drop down into the column you're talking about.Is that the only issue you are having or are you having shifting problems also? __________________ The 47-present Chevrolet and GMC Truck Message Board Network,it's owners,moderators,members,and associates of any type should not be held responsible for my opinion. You can't fix stupid,not even with duct tape. "My appearance is due to the fact that "GOD" does punish you for having too much fun!" Barrett-Jackson has perfected alchemy,they make rust into gold! "You can lead a horse to water but you can't saddle a duck" "Cleverly disguised as a 'Responsible Adult' "Sometimes your Knight in shining armor is just a retard in tinfoil"

02-24-2009, 10:50 PM	#9
kursed Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Augusta County, VA Posts: 146	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild shifting also, the two selector forks on the column keep coming out of alignment with the little piece in the middle. shifter locks up.

02-24-2009, 11:11 PM	#10
northerngmc Registered User Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Whitehorse YK Canada Posts: 2,651	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild Not sure where or how you looked in the FAQ but I really like the FAQ Index Thread of Krue at http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=157669 In there I found a thread on 3 speed manual column adjustment. I used it on my 69 GMC and it really helped. http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=215307 There is a little talk in this thread about getting parts. Good luck and please post what you find as there are a few of us that like the good old 3 in the three! I have yet to figure out why people move the shifter to the floor. __________________ Blaine 59 GMC 9314 a.k.a. Whoopee 68 C20 50th Anniversary a.k.a. The Rat http://www.flickr.com/photos/northerngmc/ http://www.members.tripod.com/P-wee/index_032.htm 1.61803 is one H of a lot better than 3.14159, no really it is!

02-25-2009, 06:06 AM	#11
kursed Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Augusta County, VA Posts: 146	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild I missed the adjustment article, thanks for the link

02-25-2009, 01:49 PM	#12
PanelDeland I am a Referee of life. Join Date: Jun 2000 Location: Greensboro N.C. Posts: 13,993	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild That's why I asked.Most people swap to a floor shift because they don't know to adjust their shifter.I like the 3 onna tree myself. __________________ The 47-present Chevrolet and GMC Truck Message Board Network,it's owners,moderators,members,and associates of any type should not be held responsible for my opinion. You can't fix stupid,not even with duct tape. "My appearance is due to the fact that "GOD" does punish you for having too much fun!" Barrett-Jackson has perfected alchemy,they make rust into gold! "You can lead a horse to water but you can't saddle a duck" "Cleverly disguised as a 'Responsible Adult' "Sometimes your Knight in shining armor is just a retard in tinfoil"

02-28-2009, 09:15 AM	#13
kursed Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Augusta County, VA Posts: 146	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild ok, i remember seeing someone that listed an upper bearing for sale, but can't remember what company it was, anyone know???

02-28-2009, 07:34 PM	#14
PanelDeland I am a Referee of life. Join Date: Jun 2000 Location: Greensboro N.C. Posts: 13,993	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild I know Tim Christian sells them.I don't know if he has any in stock.You can chaeck his website for a # and call.He's listed with the BB vendors. __________________ The 47-present Chevrolet and GMC Truck Message Board Network,it's owners,moderators,members,and associates of any type should not be held responsible for my opinion. You can't fix stupid,not even with duct tape. "My appearance is due to the fact that "GOD" does punish you for having too much fun!" Barrett-Jackson has perfected alchemy,they make rust into gold! "You can lead a horse to water but you can't saddle a duck" "Cleverly disguised as a 'Responsible Adult' "Sometimes your Knight in shining armor is just a retard in tinfoil"

02-28-2009, 08:15 PM	#15
oldgold70c10 Who's got steelies? Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Morrison, Oklahoma Posts: 1,023	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild There are some excellent diagrams in the Factory service manual on the 3 speed columns. I found some places that sell new bushings, they are in the FAQ's and most of the vendors sell the bearings. __________________ 1969 C10 LWB W/ 250 I6 & 3spd 1970 C10 with '67 small window cab, 68 front end, blue; 305/TH350, 3.08 limited slip rear end, manual brakes, power steering; & 4-wheel drums-My daily driver. 1975 Chevelle Malibu Classic Coupe 350/th350 mint green 1970 C20 Suburban 350/700R4 4.10 gearing green & white 1978 Big 10 Silverado 350/th350, working ac, 2 tone blue-My summer daily driver 1983 GMC 1500 Sierra 305/SM465 2.73 rear end How to add a trip odometer to your 67-72 stock speedometer How to rebuild your Q-Jet My Truck Page My Youtube Channel



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03-02-2009, 03:38 PM	#17
kursed Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Augusta County, VA Posts: 146	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild Ok, I found a donor column, being shipped in so this refurb should get started in a week or so.

03-21-2009, 07:04 PM	#18
kursed Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Augusta County, VA Posts: 146	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild Ok this is what I've got so far. Striped the donor column down, got two bearings (upper and lower) and a seal. Waiting for a warm day to go outside and clean things up a bit (wife's not fond of fumes in the basement) and I still want to order a few more things. What I started with The turn signal switch was already gone, so I started with the horn contact ring Then the top bearing Removed these three bolts Then carefully slide this wire cover off (long flat piece) mine took a tap or two with a big flat head screwdriver and a rubber mallet

03-21-2009, 07:06 PM	#19
kursed Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Augusta County, VA Posts: 146	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild Then these pieces should come off rather easily A bushing and a washer You should be left with an upper column that looks like this Don't forget to clean out the bee's nest Two small bolts to remove this switch (not sure what it's for yet)

03-21-2009, 07:08 PM	#20
kursed Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Augusta County, VA Posts: 146	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild On to the bottom Two bolts to hold the bottom clamp onto the column, don't forget the bolt to loosen the clamp up a bit Some wiggling and wobbling and the rest should come right out

03-21-2009, 07:09 PM	#21
kursed Registered User Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: Augusta County, VA Posts: 146	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild New parts and a free sticker

03-21-2009, 08:51 PM	#22
northerngmc Registered User Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Whitehorse YK Canada Posts: 2,651	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild Nice, I believe the switch is the back up (reverse) light switch. __________________ Blaine 59 GMC 9314 a.k.a. Whoopee 68 C20 50th Anniversary a.k.a. The Rat http://www.flickr.com/photos/northerngmc/ http://www.members.tripod.com/P-wee/index_032.htm 1.61803 is one H of a lot better than 3.14159, no really it is!

09-21-2010, 02:05 PM	#24
DjS71 Registered User Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: Santa Rosa, CA Posts: 267	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild Hey, um.... How did it turn out? __________________ 1971 C10 Short/Fleet 307-2BBL/3OTT 1999 Silverado 2500 ECSB 6.0/4L80

09-21-2010, 05:30 PM	#25
eightbanger 454 MAKES IT ROAR Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Essex, U.K Posts: 2,701	Re: 3 Speed Column Rebuild Yeah! really left hangin on this one, if this went well then Iam doing it. __________________ Nigel. An American living in a British body. 1971 Chevy Cheyenne 10 454 "In a time of universal deceit, telling the truth becomes a revolutionary act." - George Orwell "When injustice becomes law, resistance becomes duty" - Thomas Jefferson No more pain. 03.12.60 -- 12.28.10 http://www.youtube.com/Eightbanger

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