Just wonderin how popular 4-spd 'console' setups are compared to non-console, ~70-72 that is.

Also, if I had say an 'automatic' console... is it much trouble to change to a 4-spd one?

 

These two below... are they both correct for a 1972 Cutlass Supreme?

 

The 71' chassis service manual has instructions on how to convert auto to manual console.

 

they both look like 70-72 consoles and yes you can convert it to a 4-speed

 

No hacking/cutting is required is it?

 

You do need to cut your console but the factory put lines where the cuts needs to go. Check out this thread to see if it answers your questions. John

https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...ooks-like.html

 

Yes there is cutting. Make sure you have a spare consule just in case.
70'-72' used the same console, the only difference was the woodgrain. I think the one showing is for a 70' but its been a long time since I had my 70'.

 

thx.

ok dumb ques... is it a more 'natural' feeling shifting w/o a console? I mean does the storage box or anything on the console make it less fun/natural to shift? I have never had a console, so I can only go by pics.

And another... if the woodgrain part + plastic chrome like trim replaceable? I mean if you cut a hole to convert to a M/T from auto, you will leave the existing auto cutout?

 

you will still have to get the adapter and a couple other parts to convert it. also, if you have a non console 4 speed car. you have to change the lever in the shifter. the console and non console shift lever have differant bends.

 

ALL of the 70-72 consoles came from the same mold: auto,dual-gate,4-spd. The regular automatic console needed no modifications,but the dual-gate & 4-spd applications need certain modifications done to the console,and this is how they did them at the factory.You will notice some slots & indentations towards the back of the auto shifter area.These were guides for the assemblers to know where to cut for a dual-gate. If you look farther forward,on the underside,you will see two 5" grooves(one on each side,with 2 tabs on each side.This is where you cut for the 4-spd boot assembly,and those tabs are where you fasten the boot assembly to.When doing this,it is better to cut conservatively,not taking too much off because you can't put it back.
The aftermarket boot assmblies are real nice,but you will need to enlarge 2 of the holes for the larger square chrome trim to fasten the boot.Do all of your mocking & prefitting before you dye anything.The new plastic for the boot assmbly will need dyed,even if you need black because the color of the new piece is more of a dark gray.
If/when you go to get the top plates and woodgrains for the 4-spd console,get them from Fusick.I used the ones from H&H for my earlier consoles,but they always needed some massaging to get them to fit right.The new ones from Fusick are much nicer,and their woodgrains are nicer too.I have taken them right out of the packaging & installed them,without issue.
I've been around this block before.