I have a 69 SS 396 and for years my shifter handle has rattled very loudly when I'm on the highway (70+ MPH). I've had multiple engines and transmissions (3 and 4 spds) in the car but it has always done the same thing. I've grown really tired of this problem and I'm wondering if anyone else has dealt with it? My current setup is back to pretty much stock- 396 L-34, M-20, muncie shifter. I installed a brand new muncie shifter body a year ago and it didn't help at all. I have all the factory supports and braces connecting the shifter to the transmission and cross member. I feel like I've run out of things to replace. Could it be the rear end or driveshaft? I'm tired of using my shifter as an arm rest so I don't have to hear it.

Steve,

Are you using the steel or nylon bushings on the shifter rods?

I would think the steel would be great for shifting but transmit a lot of noise and vibration.

Bill,
I didn't realize Muncie shifters used bushings. I've only seen bushings for hurst shifters. If the muncie shifters use bushings do you know where I can find them? Thanks!

I had the rattle in the Competition Plus in our Chevelle for over 150K miles. Never had a problem. With 4.10 gears, any out of balance situation in the drivetrain just gets amplified. You could always set up a dial indicator and check for driveshaft runout. That would be a first easy step.

Bill,
I didn't realize Muncie shifters used bushings. I've only seen bushings for hurst shifters. If the muncie shifters use bushings do you know where I can find them? Thanks!

Steve,

Sorry about that, I didn't realize it said "Muncie shifter" in your original post. :clonk: I was thinking of the Hurst Shifter.

Lol, I have 2.56 gears in mine so high revs haven't been my problem. Prevous owner broke the 12 bolt and threw in the long legged 10 bolt :(

Take the driveshaft out and have it balanced....

Any estimates on what having the driveshaft balanced might cost from a local driveshaft shop?

I had a driveshaft straightened and balanced in the St. Louis, Mo. area, as I remember it cost $75.

If there is one thing I could say about the Muncie shifter of the time... People pulled them out and replaced them with Hurst sifters. I think there was a good reason for that. It may not be original, but they work a heck of a lot better. I love my Hurst Competition Plus.
http://i73.photobucket.com/albums/i204/cobalt2006/DSC_0262.jpg

my muncie then comp+ shifter would always rattle around, I finally changed the aftermarket flywheel for a gm flywheel and the vibration went away. jim