The Dodge Challenger Message Board

Are the consoles for slapstick transmissions the same from year to year? I know there is a difference in the plate for the shifter from year to year but I need to know if the console itself was different. Thanks!

This is a good question. I have the T handle to add, but it ties to the trans differently than the push button one I have now. More digging

I know the round shaft for the 1970 handle requires a different plate in the console than the T-handle's flattened shaft does and I do have the correct part for that. I really need to know if the console I have is right for 1970 and if not, how to tell the difference.

I am not sure but I think there was a difference from 1970 to 1971 at least. The 1970 console has an opening at the back for the lap belts to sit in. I think the 1971 (and possibly 72-74) console has an ash tray fitted at the rear.

Thanks Dave - this means I need a 70 console. Both of mine are wrong and I think they are both 72's. The hunt goes on!

Has anybody an idea how to reproduce the look of the original woodgrain in the centre console besides giving it a paint? I installed a B&M shifter a couple of weeks ago and made a wooden plate around (see below) it but now it needs the right finish. I know I can't use a repro woodgrain, cause these are 'open' at the driverside of the shifter.

Very neat job Hans. All I can suggest is you either use the repro woodgrain and disguise the gap with something else (like a polished metal plate or something) or try to find self adheasive plastic sheeting (used to be common in the 1970s)with the right sort of woodgrain.

Another idea would be to get real wood vaneer (spelling?) and cover the dash as well so it matches.

Thanks Dave, wasn't to hard to do. Your last idea is not a good idea I think, it would mean I have to reproduce the dash from a wooden plate... Wouldn't work I think. Vaneer? don't know if you spell it ok, but I know what you meant. Like you said there are woodgrain plastic sheetings but I never saw one with the right woodgrain.

BTW guys, I still have a complete console+Thandle shifter laying around somewhere from a Challenger including the base plate Will search for it when time arrives to check the year.

the 71-74 console will fit a 1970 car, only differnce is the ash tray in the rear. All thee automatic consoles used the same top plate

Might be spelt veneer. Very, very thin wood used to make cheap wood look good. Car dash boards in expensive cars use it as well as most modern furniture, Hi Fi speakers etc. It comes in very thin sheets and is glued on.

I think a polished metal plate over the gap or right around the shifter would look Ok and would be easier.

Why not follow Mick Jagger's advice and "Paint it Black"

hans,where did you get the steering wheel from?