In the "I don't remember it being this hard when I took it apart" category, I am trying to re-install my manual column shift tube in Leigh, the '61 Ranchero. I have the column tube in place (new seal at the bottom, which makes things very stiff - but good in the long run). I have the shift lever installed on the collar (but the roll pin is not yet inserted). I have the shift tube inserted down the inner bore of the column tube, and I'm trying to get the two shift bellcranks (my term for the widgits that convert the shift tube motions into transmission gear changes) and spacer between inserted onto the shift tube as it goes down. It isn't working. Am I missing something here? I can't seem to get the shift tube to make firm contact with the bellcranks. I have about 1/4" between the column seal and the steering gear box (which seems about right...). Any help that anyone can provide will be *much* appreciated. I've attached a pic of the engine compartment side of things....
