I bought a Powerglide with transbrake from a local retired racer. This one was a spare and was built by a local specialist who's built countless transmissions for local racers. The builder has had a stroke and can't be contacted at this time.
I have a few questions.
The Hurst 1/4 stick shifter that came with my car is for a 3 speed trans, can I just use it in 2nd and drive without going into 1st?
Does having the t-brake mean it is reverse pattern?
How can I verify if it is a reverse pattern?
Any other tips or advice?
Thanks.

I believe the shifter may have optional gate plates to go from 3spd to power glide and I have not seen a glide that is reverse pattern not saying there isn’t one but I’ve driven many cars with race glides and all have been normal pattern

Ok, so it would shift pushing forward as normal, starting towards the rear for low, one click forward to drive, then having neutral, reverse, and park in the normal place?
I will look at Hursts 'site and see if they say anything about gate plates, or just make one myself.
Thanks a bunch

you c an have glide with reverse pattern I ad one 30 years ago. Have seen where you simply order one or the other. Only thing changed is in valve body.

Shifter should work fine as long as you workout cable attachment to transmission so both are is same positions. Simply finding out which hole in plate needs to be used. When think right pull shifter into gear and cable should slide off and on what ever you use to attach normally a ball stud.

Thanks. Once I get it installed (No motor yet) I'll at least know if park is in the right spot.
I did look at the shifter for "gates", and it is a nice setup. I can pull back from neutral into drive and then 2nd, but then I have to squeeze the handle to get it into 1st. So it should work fine for the 'glide.

Odds of it being reverse shift pattern are slim. From what I remember a Hurst 1/4 stick can't be changed which is why I bought a B&M. The B&M has plates you change to go from 3 speed to 2 speed. I think the distance between detents is different and might cause problems, I could be wrong. The shift lever on the side of the transmission also determines how far the shifter moves it depending on how far the holes are from the center of the shaft. Be sure you have the correct adjustment before trying to move the car as it can cause internal problems if not fully in a gear position.

Personally I do not think that shifter can be made to work with a 2 speed PG and you need to purchase the correct shifter. Like Eman said, if you attempt to make it work and the throw is just a little off you risk burning up the trans and that will cost you way more than the cost of a new shifter

I don't think the Hurst shifter has the replaceable gate plate like the B&M does. I changed one out on a B&M years ago.

I believe the older Hurst Quarter sticks does have the blocking plate option to change from 3-speed to 2-speed transmissions. And I mean really old, as in from the 1980's or 1990's.

I just happen to be using one.