Stiff Shift Column

Hi Guys, First post here. I cant believe the information on this site.
I have a 55 Chevy 210 with a 235 striaght six and the 3 on the tree ****** with overdrive. Runs pretty good but I do have a problem. I am experiencing stiffness in the shift column, namely moving back and forth in neutral. Up and down is ok, but when I have to pull the shifter towards me, I have to use two hands because it is so stiff. The linkages under the hood seem good. I am thinking it is binding in the steering column itself. First of all, Is there a way to lube it? Second, how do I get a view of it to see if it is indeed binding in the column.

Any help would be appreciated,
Thanks,
Jake
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might be binding up at the ring at the bottom, where the shifter tube goes thru it, try some oil or grease there.

If you keep driving it like that you'll break something....

might help if you buy a shop manual (they are available new and used on ebay for example) to help you figure out how to work on your car.

 

We used to see this a lot back in the day. Easy fix. Squirt some light oil, WD40, engine oil, whatever on the lower column just where the shift levers stick out. This is where water and grime get in the lower bushing. Apply plenty, work it a few times and presto! new shifter.

 

Oh ya, a drop or two on the pivot pin on the upper lever , too.

 

Thanks guys for the advice. I have a shop manual coming next week from off of ebay. I know that will help quite a bit as I have some other little bugs to work out. Thanks again for your help. I will let you know what happens.