'73- x 18 shift control needed

[73LEWIS18]

I need the complete shifter control and cables for my 18' - 1973 restoration
351 w/ 270 outdrive

[Scott Pearson]

I have the shifter...no cables. You can buy them new they are Teleflex 33C.

[Dakari]

I've got to ask...How much of a pain in the A is it to change out the shifter cable. Mine is getting sticky doing the F_N_R, throttle is ok, but I haven't figured out how to get at the shifter side to replace it. This is also on an X-18 w/280.

[Kirbyvv]

You need a skinny guy with a long arm. Go in from the front. It's a PIA.

[Dakari]

Bummer...that's what I figured. At least I'm skinny enough and have long arms. Maybe I'll find something else while I'm in there...

[maddad]

Reach in and take a few pics with a digital camera so you see how the back part comes off the front part, then drag the back part to the engine area and change the cables there. A wire or string helps drag the cable part back up front to put it back on the handle part.

[Dakari]

Thanks, Maddad. I put myself in a really weird position and took a look as best I could today. I can reach everything, and can just see and feel the cotter pins. I got some spray lithium on the shifter mechanism itself and it really seems to have helped. I'm definitely going to do the string trick or a fish tape when I do replace them. Same with the camera.

[Donzi Vol]

Where might one purchase this 'spray lithium' product?

I am having similar issues, and want to give this stuff a try.

And just for the record, getting to the backside of the shifter is indeed a PITA!

[johnnywhale]

Aerosol white litium grease any auto parts or hardware store.
It's what used to get all over your car door hinges, back when men were men!

And the sheep were nervous...