Clearance issues with engine and column shifter

Hey guys so after checking and re checking I've run into an issue the clearance between the 302 and the column shifter arms is minimal. I don't want to go to a floor shifter (which I have a three speed, not sure if lokor has a three speed). So can't rember if I can mig weld a shortened sleave into the arms or maybe I have the engine off center. Which I thought I measured correctly. Anyways any help and pics would be helpful. I have fab a sleave into a draglink before. Not sure if that was cast but it held

 

Oh engine is a 302 in a 50 shoebox. The original trams is in been married to emgine

 

What makes contact? Column, shift lever or rod? Valve cover, exhaust manifold, head, or block?

 

Shifter arm/lever to rear plug wire. I've looked for header plugs that are shorter than stock I've also moved the column housing attached to steering column. Moved meaning rotated away from engine

 

Using 90* or straight plug boot?

 

I haven't done this setup, but I'm surprised the reletively narrow 302 doesn't fit. Will moving the engine slightly up, down, rearward or forward help? Is there enough length to the shift lever that the hole for the rod could be moved nearer to the pivot point? (the same would have to be done to the lever at the trans.) Otherwise, triple check your engine position and consider moving it to the p***enger side 1" or so.

 

Got the engine tipped rearward about 3* with the carb mounting surface level? You could vary it maybe a degree one way or the other.

 

I'll check those things thanks

 

I shortened the shifting lever that hit my valve cover and rewelded. Couldn't see any difference in shifting. Also if using a stock column, the shifting mechanism can be moved up the column, by shortening the shifting shaft, to give more clearance.

 

Yes I am going to go that route I think it's easier just to shorten and plug weld a sleave