The automatic shift linkage for my '72 Supreme with a TH400 is sloppy so I think I'm missing some bushings. Can some post a good diagram of the assembly and a good source for what I need?
Thanks
EDIT: So upon further inspection, the rod pictured below slides back and forth in the slot. Is that how it is supposed to be, or do I need a bushing in that slot?

 

It is supposed to be like that, there should be a spring and bushing over on the frame side of that rod where it sits in the bracket bolted to the frame.

 

You're talking about this, correct?

 

Look like your missing the spring. I bought the kit from in-line with the spring, bushing and hardware.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/390168542347

 

Thanks for the link...obviously my spring is MIA, and I've been fine without it. I ordered the kit, but just out of curiosity, what is the purpose of the spring other than to keep the rod from sliding back and forth?

 

The spring and washer keep the bushing in the cup on the bracket. Your bushing has slipped out, that’s why your feeling slop in the linkage.

 

1972 FAM Automatic Transmission Shift Linkage

 

And that's that with rhat...easy job too. Popped the hairpin clip off the rod, slid the rod out of the bracket, slid all of the hardware on and buttoned everything back up. Took me about 10 minutes 😀

 

You should notice a marked improvement in reduction of slop.

 

Looks good is it better?

 

Thanks...didn't really have any issues with shifting, just the slop when I would move the rod back and forth, but it does seem to shift tighter now😀

 

If you have a console shifter, it won’t make any difference in the shifting as that is accomplished with a cable, but it will take the slop out of the steering column collar, the NSS, and make the key easier to remove in Park.

 

I've got a column shifter..wish I had a console😀

 

If you want to get really picky about shifter action, you can also look around for replacement rubber bushings & the sleeve for the column parts.

And for any other bushings your setup might have. Your local hardware store has tons of stuff that will work, or see if you can get reproduction GM stuff.

Usually these rubber parts are pretty well worn 50 year later, if you can find replacements, you’ll probably feel the difference.

 

Well, in that case having the slop out of the linkage should make a noticeable difference in gear positions.

 

Ya know, now that you mention it, I did notice that yesterday.