This procedure covers the inspection, adjustment, and replacement of the column or floor shift linkage on the 1970 AMC Rebel Machine to restore proper gear selection and operation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Shift linkage rod × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Shift linkage bushing kit × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Transmission linkage clips × 2 — Use OEM specification
• Shift lever grommet × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake firmly
2. Place wheel chocks behind rear wheels
3. Raise front of vehicle with floor jack and support securely on jack stands
4. Allow exhaust system to cool completely if engine has been running
5. Spray all linkage connection points with penetrating oil and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes

Procedure

1. 1

   Access shift linkage components
   From under the vehicle, locate the shift linkage running from the steering column or floor shifter to the transmission. On the Rebel Machine, this typically includes a series of rods and levers connecting to the left side of the transmission case. Clean the area with a wire brush to remove dirt and corrosion for better visibility and access.
2. 2

   Inspect linkage condition
   Examine all linkage rods, bushings, clips, and pivot points for wear, damage, or looseness. Check for bent rods, worn plastic or rubber bushings, missing clips, or excessive play at connection points. Pay special attention to the swivel connections at both the column/shifter end and transmission end. Document which components require replacement.
3. 3

   Disconnect linkage at transmission
   Locate the shift rod connection at the transmission shift lever. Remove the retaining clip or cotter pin securing the linkage rod to the transmission lever. Use pliers to compress the clip ears if it's a horseshoe-style clip, or straighten and remove a cotter pin. Slide the linkage rod off the transmission lever stud. Note the orientation and position of any washers or spacers.
4. 4

   Disconnect linkage at column or floor shifter
   Move to the shifter end of the linkage. For column shift, access may require working from inside the vehicle under the dash. Remove the retaining clip at the column shift lever connection point. For floor shift, access the connection under the shifter boot or console. Separate the linkage rod from the shifter mechanism, noting any adjustment provisions or swivel positions.
5. 5

   Remove linkage assembly
   If any mounting brackets or support clips attach the linkage to the frame or body, remove these fasteners. Carefully withdraw the linkage assembly from the vehicle, taking care not to damage brake lines, fuel lines, or wiring harnesses in the area. Keep all hardware organized for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Replace worn components
   Inspect the removed linkage closely. Replace all worn bushings with new parts from the linkage bushing kit. If the linkage rod is bent or the threads are damaged, install the new shift linkage rod. Replace any broken or weakened clips with new transmission linkage clips. Clean all metal parts with solvent and dry thoroughly before reassembly.
7. 7

   Install linkage assembly
   Route the linkage (new or refurbished) back through the vehicle following the original path. Ensure it does not contact exhaust components, frame edges, or other moving parts. Install any mounting brackets or support clips finger-tight. Verify adequate clearance throughout the linkage travel range before final tightening.
8. 8

   Connect linkage at transmission
   With the transmission shift lever in the Neutral position, attach the linkage rod to the transmission lever stud. Install any washers or spacers in their original positions. Secure with the retaining clip or new cotter pin, ensuring it is fully seated and properly locked to prevent disconnection during operation.
9. 9

   Connect and adjust linkage at shifter
   Place the column or floor shifter in the Neutral position. Attach the linkage rod to the shifter mechanism. Most AMC linkages have an adjustable swivel at this connection. Thread the swivel onto the rod to approximately the middle of its adjustment range, then install the retaining clip. Do not fully tighten the swivel locknut yet.
10. 10

    Perform initial linkage adjustment
    With both the transmission lever and the shifter in Neutral, adjust the linkage rod length by threading the swivel in or out until there is no binding or preload in either direction. The linkage should be just snug with no tension. Hold the swivel and tighten the locknut securely while maintaining this neutral position. Verify all connection points are secure.
11. 11

    Test shift operation
    Lower the vehicle from jack stands. With the engine off and parking brake engaged, move the shifter through all gear positions (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Low for automatic; all forward gears and Reverse for manual). Each position should engage positively with no excessive effort or vague feel. The shifter should return to each detent position crisply.
12. 12

    Verify neutral safety and adjustment
    For automatic transmissions, verify the engine starts only in Park and Neutral positions. If the starter engages in other positions or fails to engage in Park/Neutral, readjust the linkage slightly at the swivel connection. Check that the shift indicator accurately reflects the selected gear. Make fine adjustments as needed and re-tighten the locknut.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all linkage clips and retainers are properly installed and fully seated
2. Verify adequate clearance between linkage and exhaust components, frame, and body throughout full range of motion
3. Tighten all mounting bracket hardware that was loosened during installation
4. Replace shift lever grommet if access was gained through the floor or console

Verification

• Start engine and verify it starts only in Park and Neutral (automatic transmission)
• With engine running and foot on brake, shift through all gear positions and confirm smooth engagement without binding
• Verify the transmission actually engages each gear (check by attempting to move vehicle in each forward and reverse gear)
• Confirm shift indicator matches the actual gear selected
• Road test vehicle to ensure proper shift quality and verify no vibration or noise from linkage area
• Re-inspect all linkage connections from underneath after test drive to ensure nothing has loosened

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