NP205 Shifter

[merc359]

CLOSED TECH: NP205 Shifter

Just a quick question that maybe one of you can answer:

I have a 205 T-case and a TH350. I am looking to find a shifter and I think I have located one. However, is there only one shifter for the 205 or does it matter what transmission it is mated up to?

For example, if the transmission was a TH400 that it was originally attached to, would the shifter be different than if the 205 was mated to a TH350? My understanding is that they are the same, but I just wanted to be sure.

Thanks

 

[nvrenuf]

A 205 shifter is a 205 shifter. There have been a couple of variations over the years but they're related to year model not the transmission.

 

[merc359]

205 Shifter

Were the variations extreme enough that it would require me to relocate the hole in the floor? Or were they more suble changes?

 

[nvrenuf]

Nah, they were subtle changes. For instance I have what I believe is a very early 70's stick that is taller with a rearward bend in the top 4".

 

[dyeager535]

When I put a 1974 465/205 in my truck, I had to bend the shifter to clear the hole in the floor for the 208. It would hit when cruising while the assembly vibrated.

The current 32 spline 465/205 uses an adapter that is 3" longer than the old one. The shifter HAS to be bent differently than the old ones to clear the floor hole.

I have not tried to bolt up the later shifter in my truck yet, but with my earlier experience, I wouldn't be surprised if the hole is wrong for the newer 32 spline setup. The shifter bolt is obviously much further back than it was with the old setup installed. Probbaly that 3".

I can't believe GM would make a different tunnel for one tons, but I don't have one to compare/measure against. From a production standpoint, it doesn't make sense to use a different tranny hump, then again GM did quite a few things that make little sense.

 

[paulmoon]

don't want to hijack this thread, but on a similar note. I'm puttin in an NP205 in mine this week and my shift bezel or knob neither have the shift pattern. What is the shift pattern on a early 70's 205?

 

[nvrenuf]

*Dash*

4Lo
N
2hi
4Hi

*Seat*

 

[dyeager535]

And here is a picture of the difference between late and early 205 shifters:

Late shifter in back (1991 V3500, chrome) early shifter in front.

My speculation is that when the transmission/t-case adapter changed (in my case 1985 when the 465/205 were both 32 spline) the shifter changed. You can see the shifter location will be different based on the different angles.

 

[merc359]

Thanks

Thanks for that info. The pictures helped immensely.

 

[paulmoon]

Thanks for the pattern. I'll put that on the chrome bezel around the boot.