To add a console shifter.
Labor is not that bad. Finding all of the correct parts is a different story.
Not sure of exact percentage, but I would guess that about 10% (or less) of the ’75-79 B-bodies came a center console (floor shift). Maybe 1% of them came with 40/40 bucket seats with nothing in between the seats (add a console and your set). The correct console is a ‘75-79 B-body part only (different than anything else out there).
It might be easier to find an older B-body console (’66-70) or an E-body/71-74 B-body and install, but it won’t look the same.
’66-70 B-body console:
Note all parts for these are being re-popped.
Note: there is no cup holder, but the large flat surface that works fine for one.
’71-74 B-body/E-body:
Note all parts for these are also being re-produced.
Note: no provision for a cup holder – but a limited space for a cup, in a pinch.
’75-79 B-body:
Note: Only used or NOS parts are available.
Note: no provision for a cup holder.
’80-83 J-body
Note: only used or NOS parts are available – but (I think) are more available than the ’75-79 B-body ones are.
Note: still no provision for a cup holder.
Note: The F and M-body consoles are kind of a mix between the ’75-79 B and J body consoles.
After you get a console, the shifter and linkage are the next thing to get. The shifters and linkage are more universal (not 100% though) than the consoles are.
Then you have the console brackets. All brackets were welded into the car, but not too hard to cut out or to make new ones. The older B and E brackets are also being re-popped, as well as a lot of linkage.
The last thing is the steering column. The shifter on column can be left in place or have the handle removed. The console cars have a different column assembly – but not too hard to leave what exists in place.
All in all, it is best to find a car with console already in car or find one to remove all parts from. When you get closer to that point, give a holler. I might even come down and help.
BudW
