[KMurphy]

I'm going to be very honest. I know nothing about old cars except the fact that they look cool. My uncle has a 1949 Chevy that never moves out of his garage. He made a bet with me that if I can get it out of his driveway (about 100 yards) without stalling it or hitting anything he will give it to me. The only catch is that he wont tell me ANYTHING about the car. If I can figure out the shift pattern I think I’ll be able to do it. If anyone out there has a 1949 Chevy 2 door or knows someone who does please tell me the shift pattern. If it was a floor shift it wouldn't be this difficult, but it’s a 3 on the tree. Please help me.

[Frisco]

The shift is the standard 'H' pattern. Neutral is in the middle. Pull the lever up towards the steering wheel and then straight up to go to Reverse. Same for first except after pulling up towards the steering wheel pull straight down for First. Second is just straight up from Neutral and Third is straight down.

Put the trans in Neutral and start the engine. Push the clutch pedal all the way to the floor and hold it there. Release the emergency brake. Put the trans in gear (probably Reverse since you want to back out of the garage). Slowly begin to ease up on the clutch pedal while easing on the gas pedal. If it starts to 'Buck' ease up on the gas and / or push the clutch back in some. Practice makes perfect.

Once you are moving the shifts are easier to make without 'bucking'. When coming to a stop; depress the clutch pedal all the way and hold it there while braking to a full stop. With the clutch still depressed, put the trans back in gear. You will be ready to move again. Have the trans in neutral and the brakes applied when shutting off the engine. Don't forget to apply the emergency brake after shutting the engine off or the car will roll.

[KMurphy]

thanks. thats very helpful. hopefully i will have a 1949 chevy in a few days.