My '72 tail shifter shifter rod bushing is leaking and I'm about to tackle the replacement. The tranny is in place and has never been messed with. Does anyone have a blow by blow on the best approach to do this. Obviously, photos would be a great help but I'd appreciate any suggestions on what NOT to do as well as any how to advice.

A shifter bushing is leaking? Leaking what?

Where is this bushing that you report to be leaking ? A picture would help.

You talking about a leak around the shift arm coming directly off the side of the trans?

It's not uncommon to get a drip or two if they sit for awhile. And a little will go a long way. How much are we talking about, over how much time? Also, I'm assuming that it's in the cover (or coming from it). The most likely to leak source is the guide bushing for the speedometer. It's held in by the one bolt at the bottom of the transmission, and really needs another seal to keep it form leaking.

Replacing the shift lever shaft seal on a tail shifter is a bit of a chore. There's a special tool required to remove an internal roll pin (under the square cover plate on the bottom). The roll pin needs to be pressed out so the shaft can be removed and the seal replaced. T H O M A S made a pin-press tool for doing this and we used it to do the job on my tail shift trans.

Not sure who else has one of the tools

Over tightening the access cover is a sure fire way to build in a leak. I would tighten the bolts gradually. Inspect the plate for warpage. The roll pin mentioned should be the triple rolled variety. The pin sees a lot of action. Note the orientation of the internal parts. It's Easy to install the internal arm on the shaft incorrectly. Not so easy to fix. The old pin can be driven out with a punch.

Thanks everyone .....every little bit of information helps when doing these little but troublesome jobs.