1966 Bird shift jump

[6T6-T]

I've read that trans jumps from Park to reverse when idling. Would it be better to shift to neutral w. parking brake on while idling ? Getting my Bird tomorrow and want to be prepared. Thanx

[Alan H. Tast]

I'd make sure the parking brake is working properly before using it. Otherwise, lift up on the shift lever and slide the column over towards the center of the car: by doing that the shifter cannot fall out of Park. Then, after you've had time to assess the situation, you can weld up the shift lever detent tang or replace with a new lever (the detent plate rarely is worn as it's a hardened steel). Do a search in this Forum for 'shift lever repair' and see what comes up.

[6T6-T]

Thanks. I've seen video of welding the shift lever, just don't know when I'll get to that, Lots of stuff needing attention, but most everything works.

[64ZCODE]

6T6-T, if your car really will hop out of Park and into Reverse by itself, you should also consider disabling the vacuum e brake release until you get the shifter mechanism fixed. That ensures the e brake stays set until you manually release it. And, following Alan's recommendation to slide the steering column to the right and lock the tranny into Park is critical.

[6T6-T]

thx 2u both.