Request for guidance from Muncie/Hurst experts regarding extraction
and future re-integration of Hurst shifter in need of rebuild.
It has been 20 years or so since I attempted this and the combination
of poor notes and weak memory has inspired this post.

Car is 1972 Cutlass with M20, Hurst shifter.
Plan is to disconnect shifter from M20 rods and remove from
car to allow bench rebuild of shifter assembly.

Desire is to verify process to remove/reinstall the shifter from the
car, and tips/suggestions from others with relevant history/past success
to assist with this.

The image attached shows a page from the Service Manual, as well as
images from above (inside the car after removal of console) and
from below the car.

It appears that there are two bolts attaching the shifter to
the M20 tailhousing bracket.

1) is this correct, only these two bolts retain shifter assy to M20?

2) What is best way to access these two bolts.

2a) Lower one looks to be more accessible from below the car.

2b) Upper one looks somewhat accessible from within the car, but there is
not much (index finger tip width?) space between tunnel and bolt end.

Hope is that both bolts only have to be removed enough to disengage
from tailhousing bracket, and will remain retained in the shifter assy
during removal from car.

Guidance on removing these, as well as any thoughts on the reattachment
of the shifter back on the bracket.
Order of bolt removal during shifter removal and reengagement during
shifter reattachment.

Gravity will help removal, but will fight reassembly... two person event?

3) Does shifter handle need to be removed prior to detachement and
removal from below of the

Thanks for the assistance, Paul


Hurst shifter in car views, Olds service manual page.

 

The upper bolt can be removed from inside the car.
The lower bolt should be removed from under the car.

I'd suggest:
Jacking the car up and securing on jack stands.
Go inside the car and loosen the upper bolt.
Go under the car and disconnect all the linkage from the shifter
Loosen lower bolt.
Shifter should come out the bottom of the car.

It will make it easier if you remove the shifter lever from the shifter. You normally would remove it anyway when rebuilding the shifter.

I'd suggest buying this kit to rebuild the shifter. It will give you the correct new slip in handle rubber isolators and retaining clips for your handle.
HURST 4 Speed Master Rebuild Kit for OEM 1971-1979 Camaro, FireBird

 

The handle is removed by sliding feeler gauges in between the handle body and the shifter receiver. Then, pull straight up. There are detent ***** that lock into holes in the shifter handle.