Shift rod linkage cover, How hard is it to change out Options

[Thunderchief]

My shift rod linkage cover has a crack and is leaking. It looks like I'll have to disconnect the rear linkage to change it out? Is that difficult to do? Also, which lubricant and how much do I use when I do? Thanks as always.

[Chad911sc]

Not too difficult. Need to remove the shift arm off of the shaft. I’ve never removed mine, but looks like in the picture it’s a little roll pin that needs pushed out to remove it. Once that is off, just use a little pic to pull that rubber seal off of the shaft and use a socket of appropriate size to drive the new one back in. Replace the shift arm and press the roll pin back in. Then I would change the fluid in the transmission because you don’t know how much has leaked out over the years or what type of fluid is in it already. Never hurts to have fresh fluid in the transmission any way. Many opinions I’m sure of what type to use, but mine shifts like butter now after changing it to the Lucas gear oil. Took about 2.5 quarts and you fill it from the plug shown in picture.