Manual Transmission Shifter Ball Options?

[Florida_Phil]

Are there any options to replace my 1955 Thunderbird manual transmission door knob shifter ball? Will a round Hurst ball or similar fit?

[ranchbird]

Funny you should ask, I have always liked the looks of the white Hurst knob. What I did was get a white one with the 3spd pattern then I drilled it out slightly larger and used a tap that matched the size and thread of the stick in my 56, looks pretty cool. Its been a while since I did it so I don't remember the size of the tap. Just pick a tap that fits the original knob.

[ranchbird]

I would have posted a picture but couldn't figure it out and finally gave up.

[Florida_Phil]

Good idea. Thanks for the tip!

[redstangbob]

I would have posted a picture but couldn't figure it out and finally gave up.

looks like we need a new 'how to' on posting, it can't get much easier now

[ranchbird]

[Florida_Phil]

Looks good! I see you used the Hurst boot and trim ring as well. I wouldn't have thought of that. Thanks!

[ranchbird]

Its actually the original chrome surround and boot, the picture not real clear.

[Florida_Phil]

My car is a '55 and doesn't have the chrome surround, just the boot. Is that stock? If so, where can I buy the chrome trim surround?

[ranchbird]

I would think the 55 would be the same, are you sure its not covered up by the carpet.

[Florida_Phil]

My '55 car has a metal lip sticking through the carpet where the boot attaches. I have never seen a TBird with the chrome trim piece that yours has. My parts book does not show this piece either.

[ranchbird]

I guess they were on 56-57 birds, if you go to thunderbirdseast.com they have a picture of a restored one for sale.

[Florida_Phil]

I ordered an old school 3 speed shifter ball on EBay. The threads on my '55 are 3/8" x 24. The ball fit without any modification. Much better in my opinion.