EricU

I have a 4-speed 69 convertible and there is a lever on the steering column located inside the engine compartment that in one position does not allow the ignition key to be removed. I was told that it is supposed to be connected to the transmission somehow.

I am getting ready to install my Keisler 5-spd and would like to know how and what to, that I am supposed to hook the lever up to.

Thanks for any help.

Eric.

71'AirStrike

that lever is used for autos, not manuals.

after my 5speed install, i simplyed bubba-it into the up/unlock position

chad

sb69coupe

In '69, that lever connected to a transmission "back drive" cable that was hooked to the reverse gear shift arm on the transmission. It required that the car be in reverse in order to remove the key from the ignition. You can just lock the lever in the released position to allow you to remove the key. I don't think there would be any way to rig the back drive cable to the Keisler shifter.

Shannon

Larry B.

No. That's wrong.... The reverse lock is used used for manuals too. On automatics it locks in park. I have the original one on my 69 L-36 4 speed/ It is shown in the GM assembly manual as well as other manuals. It's called the back drive cable. the cable connects to the lever on the column and the other end goes to the reverse arm on the transmission. These cable were troublesome and often removed (especially if the car was stolen at one time in its life). It Locks the steering wheel also so it was dis-connected when thieves got to the car. At one time these cars were the Number 1 stolen car and everybody wanted the famous Covette engines and other goodies for their hot rods of the day. Nothing like saying you had a corvette engine in you 57 Chevy... Open the hood and show off you "corvette" valve covers.


[Modified by bluevetteman, 6:56 PM 3/25/2004]


[Modified by bluevetteman, 6:57 PM 3/25/2004]

Jim Shea

The following paper has the history and theory behind the General Motors transmission/steering column backdrive system.
http://www.corvettefaq.com/redir.asp?site=372

Since you will need to cobble a switch for your backup lights, it might be possible to cobble the backdrive cable to your transmission as well.

Marks69BB

Nope. The Tremec's swich is electronic and internal to the tranny. Just put it into the 'up' position as stated above.

pra4sun

I was always wondering how this worked. I noticed that it was disconnected in my car, so I connected it. Then, I couldn't remove they key! I quickly disconnected it.

I wonder if anybody actually has this hooked up and functional on their 4 speeds?