rmoths

I have a 1968 Cutlass with column shift. The gear indicator does not work. Does anyone know how this works or what's involved in fixing this.
Thanks Barb. ( Merry Christmas everyone).

rcorrigan5

I'm attaching a couple of pictures I just took with my phone camera that will hopefully show how the column shift indicator works. Behind your speedometer pod, there is a spring-loaded plastic lever. First, if you move this lever counter-clockwise as you look at it from behind the dash, you shift indicator in your speedo pod should move from PARK through all the gears to LOW. Second, there is a wire loop assembly with a metal tab at the end of it. The loop fits through the hole in the plastic lever and the other end (which has the metal tab) is screwed into your steering column sleeve under the dash (this "sleeve" moves in line with your column shift when you change gears). Remove the cover in the lower dash that is under the column to gain easier access. Hope this works for you.

Randy C.

rmoths

Thanks Randy for the reply! It's very thoughtful of you to take the pictures and explain this so well. It's great to have such nice people (Olds people) to help out with problems. This is a wonderful forum. Thanks again, Barb.

rcorrigan5

...and I've gotten so much help from many other people at this site as well. I agree with you that this is one of the neatest "help" sites for our Oldsmobiles.

Randy C.

sportcutlass

I'm looking for actual shift indicator needle. It's a yellow plastic piece. The loop on mine is broken. Do you know where I can get one? I can't find it anywhere. Thanks.

bry593

I've the same problem. Broken plastic indicator crank. I'm guessing this will be a "live with it" issue. No replacements unless buying a complete used speedometer, or making a custom one?

bry593

Well, I've decided I'm just dumb enough to think I can make one from steel wire and some epoxy. I'll probably spend 20 hours trying to make it work before it fails in spectacular fashion. I've made a lot of mistakes and this will probably be added to the list...

Phoenix8990

I just posted the same question and hadn't seen the old posts regarding it. Thanks for the pics and explanation. Those parts are missing on mine. But at least i know what was suppose to be there and know how it was suppose to work. This site is awesome!
thanks,
Steve

MI68442W30

Guys and Gals ,I have 4 of these 68 shift indicator needles ,that are all there and unbroken that I have saved from several 68 parts cars over the years.I do have 1 68 column shift speedometer. I saved them even though there was never a demand for them ,everybody always wanted floor shift speedometers. PM me if you still need one.

1968Cutlassfallbrook

hi I was wondering if you might have the column shift automatic linkage the manual calls it link and hook that hooks to the column and indicator

MI68442W30

yes I do still have these parts and have what you need ,I will dig them out . you can send me a PM with contact info and I could send a pic if needed