Restored 1970-72 442 Shifter for use with console
(click to enlarge)
HURST SHIFTER RESTORATION
Don't just rebuild your Hurst shifter, RESTORE IT to it's original beauty and function!
Properly restoring your Hurst shifter will add to the performance and drivability of your Oldsmobile. First step is to start with the cleanest core shifter you can find. This means locating a shifter base that is not rusty and scarred with pitting. By finding a clean shifter to start, your end product will look brand new after the restoration. Pitted parts never look nice even after they have been restored. Also look for relatively clean chrome on the handle. Severely pitted parts are often impossible to rechrome, especially when the pitting is located around the engraved "442" and "H" logo on the handle.
Disassemble the shifter and clean all parts in solvent. Once parts are clean, bead blast all the components so they are totally clean. Take the extra time to carefully blast off all the original coating of either clear zinc, cadmium or gray phosphate. Remnants of original plating will cause problems when the parts are replated. Now is the time to inspect the housing and components for unusual wear. Also inspect the housing for gouges and rust pitting. Extra time may need to be taken to sand out imperfections. Make sure to remove all sanding scratches prior to plating.
Most Hurst 442 shifters built 1972 and earlier used clear zinc or cadmium as a plating on the shifter base. At some point in time Hurst reverted to gray phosphate on the shifter bases, possibly around 1973. Most aftermarket Hurst shifters have gray phosphate bases. You'll have to find a local plating company to work with to get your parts plated properly, or use one of the advertisers in Hemmings. Once the parts are back from plating, you are ready to ship them to Hurst (Mr. Gasket address/phone coming soon) where they will reassemble the shifter and install new shims and bushings. Now is a great time to get the handle rechromed.
Summary:
Shifter is completely disassembled and cleaned
Rust pitting is removed where possible
All parts are zinc plated or phosphated as per original specs
Handle is rechromed
Shifter is reassembled by Hurst in their facility using genuine replacement parts
Restored shifter is sent back to you including a new "Hurst Pit Pack" which includes nylon and steel linkage bushings and new linkage spring clips.
