DickB
Active member
Electric shift using a linear actuator.
I ordered a few parts from the listed sources; the rest came from the local hardware store. I fabricated just one part to attach the ball joint to the linear actuator using ¾” PVC conduit and an end cap cut from a blank PVC electrical box cover glued with PVC cement. I used an existing hole in the chassis for the actuator. The P clamp is adjusted along the shift lever to match the actuator’s 2” travel. The ball joint can be disconnected by hand in case of an actuator failure. The switch is mounted above the parking brake lock. The actuator draws 3A max. Cost is less than a jockey shifter.
There are less expensive linear actuators that would work, but they are slower. This one is also rated IP66 dust and water protected.
Firgelli Premium Linear Actuator Model #FA-35-12-2-P (35lb. 2” stroke 1 second travel time).
https://www.firgelliauto.com/products/premium-linear-actuators
Fielect 2Pcs Rod End Ball Bearing with Stud Inside 6 Outside 6 A3 Steel Silver Generator Accessories Zinc Plated
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0814XWPNF?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
11.1mm 0.44" ID Blue Billet P-Clip for PTFE-AN6 Teflon Fuel Hose Clamp
https://www.ebay.com/itm/232057226880
I ordered a few parts from the listed sources; the rest came from the local hardware store. I fabricated just one part to attach the ball joint to the linear actuator using ¾” PVC conduit and an end cap cut from a blank PVC electrical box cover glued with PVC cement. I used an existing hole in the chassis for the actuator. The P clamp is adjusted along the shift lever to match the actuator’s 2” travel. The ball joint can be disconnected by hand in case of an actuator failure. The switch is mounted above the parking brake lock. The actuator draws 3A max. Cost is less than a jockey shifter.
There are less expensive linear actuators that would work, but they are slower. This one is also rated IP66 dust and water protected.
Firgelli Premium Linear Actuator Model #FA-35-12-2-P (35lb. 2” stroke 1 second travel time).
https://www.firgelliauto.com/products/premium-linear-actuators
Fielect 2Pcs Rod End Ball Bearing with Stud Inside 6 Outside 6 A3 Steel Silver Generator Accessories Zinc Plated
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0814XWPNF?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details
11.1mm 0.44" ID Blue Billet P-Clip for PTFE-AN6 Teflon Fuel Hose Clamp
https://www.ebay.com/itm/232057226880