on my 73 2.o,im reinstalling the shifter bar,got front on ,but back connection with new bushing is not going in over the ball.whats the easy way to do this>

maybe im not being clear:im reinstalling shift rod with coupler and new bushing in coupler to transmission,but finding it tough to get coupler onto ball at trans.is this normally a tight fit,maybe wrong bushing?any tips as to how to get coupler on to ball?

I just di mine a few weeks ago. It was quite a tight fit and I had to give it a good whack (with my hand) and I heard an audible click when it snapped into place. Don't for get to add a little lithuim grease :-)

Put the bushing on the ball first, not while it's in the cup.

A good smack with a mallet will get it on.

thanks,i was doing it backwards

I put the bushing in the coupler first, then use a 3" clamp to press it onto the ball. Easy.

I've broken one with a hammer.

A better way with less chance of damage.

a tiny bit of lubricant on the inside edge of the ball cup bushing helps. make sure there's no crap left behind in the coupler too.