For those that have done the auto to manual swap (or swapped columns), what do you do with the shift interlock cable that goes from the column to the (old, now removed) auto shifter?
Can I just tuck it out of the way (or cut it), or does it need to be removed from the column?
I thought I remember reading somewhere that just tucking it away can cause issues (lock the column while driving) but can't find it again, so not sure if I'm mis-rembering.
I removed mine. Wasn't too hard. Seems like I did remove the column, however. it's just a cable with a ball end on it, if I remember correctly. Once it's gone, you don't have to worry about it any more.
and a little bracket holds shifter end. squeeze ears and push forward to clear the it I think. Been years since mess w/ it. Put in all pasts in a plastic bag to give/sell them.
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Thanks for the help! I guess I didn't see those two small phillips screws and figured the column needed to come apart. Two small screws and away it went.
If I may ask another question. Just did the opposite-a manual to auto swap. Didn't see any cable that was used to lock the steering column on the stick shifter. The lock on the manual column appears to be a lever below the ignition switch that is activated manually.
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When I did the auto to manual swap in my Fiero, I kept the steering column and just removed the interlock cable. I did that because I'm lazy. I didn't feel like swapping steering columns. And I didn't want to fiddle with a lever every time I turn the key.
I imagine the reverse would be true for the manual to auto swap. The auto gear shifter doesn't need the interlock cable. The cable is there to disable the keyswitch, if the transmission isn't in Park. So if you're OK with that little lever by the keyswitch, you don't need to swap steering columns.
For those that have done the auto to manual swap (or swapped columns), what do you do with the shift interlock cable that goes from the column to the (old, now removed) auto shifter?
Can I just tuck it out of the way (or cut it), or does it need to be removed from the column? I thought I remember reading somewhere that just tucking it away can cause issues (lock the column while driving) but can't find it again, so not sure if I'm mis-rembering.
Thanks!
Sorry for bringing this back from the dead. What is the difference between manual and auto column? What is the reason/advantage for seapping the column?
Manual column: Has a small lever next to the ignition switch that must be operated in order to remove the key.
Automatic column: Has a cable interlock that won't allow key removal without the transmission being in "Park".
When swapping transmission types, it's up to you to decide which safety features you wish to retain. I think the Park interlock for the automatic would be mandatory for any sort of safety inspection.
I've driven manual transmission cars that had no lever, so I don't know how mandatory that is.
