so. Ive been looking at some of these interior mods. I really like the explorere center console idea. However I have a 5spd. I know it will work, I searched and even found picture proof that its done. however. I have a manual tcase sitting in my garage waiting to be swapped out for my electric one. Do any of you see a feasable way to make the center console mod work with two shifters down there?? Ive been twisting the idea around and around in my head but can't seem to think of a good way. Are there any other options really besides the explorer that might work ok? Thanks a lot for the help.
iain

err..as a side note..does anyone know if a fx4 shifter for the manual bw1354 will work on a manual bw1350??

 

You could do the normal FX4 half-console deal...

 

The transfer case shifter would either interfere with the vertical side of the console or exit outside of it, depending on the T/C used and the linkage. The Ranger's transmission shifter and boot take up almost all of the space available in the opening of the Ex console.



Here is a pic of an 01 Explorer with a stock console and a manual T/C conversion. It has a V8, 4R70W and a BW4406, so it's a bit different from what you're thinking about. The shifter fits into a small box on the side of the tunnel (under the carpet). It is completely outside of the console.





The factory T/C shifter position on my Ranger 1354M is positioned more inboard on the trans tunnel. I believe that it would not work at all with a stock Ex console because the shifter comes up right where the side of the console would be. The way mine is laid out, it looks like you would need to make the console wider to include the T/C shifter and boot. I don't think it's a practical combination.

 

Idea: Make your own!

 

hmm.. i tend to agree. I would just make my own, but im almost positive that it would never come out as nice as an explorer console. I have some fiberglass experience, (boat patching basically) and some bondo time as well but i don't think I could create something that nice. But I might give it a shot.

Also, rwenzing, thanks for the pics. Your right, I would have to cut the drivers side wall of the console almost completely off to fit both shifters. Not very practical either. Im gonna keep thinking about this...thanks for the replies.
iain

 

what about the shorty Explorer consoles?

this is the style i am talking about...........they had them all the way up to '97 i know for sure...my moms '97 Explorer has this style...

 

That's what mine and rwenzing's trucks have.