Early U / Contnental Shift Lever???

I now have my "new" '31 Allis U running. While driving it around last weekend I realized that it was stuck in 2nd gear. That was a long, interesting ride because I never bothered to reattach the kill wire to the magneto (in hindsight, NOT a good idea) and had no way to stop the engine from the seat. Luckily the engine starved for fuel in the driveway and quit. The original shift lever is worn out so I couldn't find the right spot to shift it out of gear.

I machined a new shift lever assembly (new ball, socket, spring, collar & lever). My question is; What is the correct length of the lever above the transmission cover plate (the original lever had broken off and a pipe was welded on) and what size ball-knob is on the top? I'm trying to keep the U as close to original as possible and want my new parts to look authentic.  If anyone out there has an early U and could just put a tape measure on the lever and ball I would really appreciate it!

Thanks,
Rich


Edited by zootownjeepguy - 12 Apr 2011 at 8:16pm

It will depend on if you have the tall steering set up, or the short.  My Brother Brad has an early U and he has the tall set up.

I will get your measurement when I go out to the shop this morning.  Dave.

On my United, the shift lever is 12" tall from the top edge of the umberella to where the threads start for the ball. Then about 3/4" of thread. I did not take the ball off, so I am guessing about the thread length. It is a small ball, I did not measure the diameter of the ball. If you need further info, contact me.  Dave.