Shift Collar Replacement - Any Body done this before?

[hmills]

I am replacing the shift collar on my '71 Automatic. Has anyone done this before? I bought a new one from Dennis Carpenter. I removed the old one and started to replace it but found that the two small screw holes in the new one are not threaded. I guess I need to tap the threads? Here is a photo showing which screws I am talking about. I don't really understand the purpose of these two screws. They seem to hold down the washer that holds in the springs but there is a small cover that goes over the post that the shift lever pushes against and it seems that there is nothing holding this cover in place. Any previous experience in this area would be beneficial. thanks.

[AlleyCat]

Hi Herb, the shift collar is made from an alloy often refered to as pot metal.The screws are usually self tapping.Spin them out of the old collar and run them into the new one.The spring retainer will come out when you remove the screws.

[hmills]

Well, I'll be. you learn something new every day. They self tapped right in. Thanks for the help Alleycat. Herb