Swapped a 455 into my 70 Cutlass S, was a 350 car. Heddman headers barely fit now my column shifter linkage hits the header, not even really close. I was told I needed to swap to floor shift but really don't want to.Anyone encountered this? Appreciate any feedback

 

Has anyone experienced problems withe the stock column shifter linkage mating up with a big block swap into a 70 Cutlass S? Rebuilt 350 transmission utilized the original small block motormounts on both frame and block. Heddman headers, long tube, just doesn't even seem close. I've read I need a floor shift? Really don't want that at all, like the look of the stock interior. Any advice would be appreciated

 

The floor shift will not let it run faster. Look at the Hemi 426 cars a auto column shift works just fine.

 

Not looking for faster, just want it to work!

 

Are you using the 350 headers. If so thats the problem. They may bolt to the 455 heads, but the deck height is taller so your gonna have clearance issues.

 

You should be able to use your column shift, adjust the linkage in park. The only thing is the indicator pointer may be a smidge off.

 

Depending on how a particular header manufacturer routed the pipes, you may or may not be able to retain the stock column shift linkage. I've installed many headers that simply did not allow the rod from the steering column to clear, whether it was for a column shifter or the backdrive linkage for the floor shifter. At best, you'll need to bend the linkage rod to clear. If that doesn't work, you can get a cable conversion for the column shift from various street rod shifter vendors.

 

I was thinking the same thing as he didn't mention if these were the original 350 headers or a new set of 455 headers.

 

They are new headers ordered for a 455

 

I had flowtech headers on a 70 Cutlass S that was originally a 350 car that I swapped a 455 into with a column shifter and had no issues.
It sounds like the headers just weren't made with the linkage in mind.

 

I think the headers I ordered were suggested by Oldcutlass to someone on a post at one time with a Hedman part #. I am going to go to the shop on the weekend and try and take some pictures to post.

 

Which header pn did you order?

 

I will have to check when I get home from work, I still have the box.

 

Part number 58150

 

Those are the correct headers for your application. Can you take pictures of the interference at different angles so we can make suggestions on how to make it work.

 

Here's a thought. Read Step 5 of the Hedman installation instructions for these headers.

 

I read it, just need to see what the interference is.

 

Did you get this fixed?

 

Camdon, I'm getting ready to do the same swap with the same headers and a '71. I'd like to know if you got this solved.

@ Joe, do you have a certain brand of cable conversion linkage you like?

 

I have not had the need for any, so have no first-hand experience. I know Lokar sells one. Heck, my 1999 Chevy truck has a factory cable operated column shifter. Possibly you could adapt a junkyard version, as I'm sure the Lokar one is not inexpensive.

 

I'd really like to see pictures of the issue. The op has not been on since March.

 

Would you know, off hand, if the A-body Cutlass has a 2 inch column? And roger that on the salvage yard unit. Even the ididit brand is $170.

I'd also like to know how this turned out. It would greatly inform my swap.

 

 

Yes, please. Could you include both ends of the linkage also.
Thanks

 

 

Ok, that's not that bad of a cure.

 

I haven't had a chance to take a look at my linkage yet. And the small block is still in the bay because of work and the fact that it won't quit snowing! Is it possible to simply bend the linkage?

 

I'm curious what headers you have for your 455.

I sure wish the OP would let us know how this turned out.