I need your help figuring out shifter linkage!

[f85gtron]

I'm installing a  f23 and have everything complete, with the exception of the shift linkage.

I'd like to utilize the factory cables to keep parts acquisition simple for later on down the line and simple is always better.
I was thinking of lopping off the ends of a couple gas struts that i had lying around and drilling/tapping the cut ends

then doing the same to the shifter cables, but cutting threads on those to screw into the new extensions just made.
Any other ideas?  Brainstorming please! Anything!

[pgackerman]

Clever idea.  How far off are the old cables?

[Fierofool]

There's a company called California Push-Pull  www.push-pull.com that will make cables for you.  They are an aftermarket supplier of adjustable Fiero cables.  I have 1 on the 86.

[f85gtron]

Thanks for the California push pull suggestion, but I'd like to keep the original parts on the car as much as possible.
So, I was thinking...(ouch).....
What about a kind of "shuttle", with the ball on one end, and the socket on the other and a strut, anchored on the transmission to transfer motion. 

[Fierofool]

I'm thinking, too (squeak), would Getrag cables work?  They're a bit longer than the Muncie cables.  I don't know if the mount would bolt to the F23.  I've never seen one. 

[f85gtron]

The getrag cables might work.  I have to fabricate a cable mount anyway, so the mount will work with anything. I have a nice set of Isuzu cables here, but they won't work. 

[Fierofool]

I have a shifter and a Getrag shift cable out here if you need them for R&D. 

[f85gtron]

Here's a quick dirty scratch of what I've come up with....

[Fierofool]

Pretty ingenious.  You could put serrations around the rod so it wont slide in the U-bolts.  Maybe even a little channel in the plate to cradle the rod.  Maybe use a long cable end from a junkyard car.

[f85gtron]

I settled on tried and true barn technology to get my car on the road. Y'all might find my solution amusing. Keep in mind this is a work around until I find a more elegant solution.