Dual-Gate Shifter Installation for Automatic
Short answer: A clean way to add a dual-gate to a Firebird automatic is to use a Hurst dual-gate from an Oldsmobile 442 — it’s the exact same size and form as the Firebird shifter (even the mounting holes match), and the console fits smoothly over it. The 442 unit has a bent stick (sits closer to the driver) and a more positive lock on the manual side than the straight-stick GTO version.
A dual-gate has two slots: a “hers” side that works like a normal shifter and a “his” side that shifts manually — so you can row up and down through an automatic without missing a gear or hitting reverse. (A 1968 Firebird with a 442 dual-gate won Best of Show at a recent T/A Nationals.)
Fitting the plate: the GTO shifter plate is smaller than the Firebird’s, so it won’t cover the console hole. Mark the Firebird plate with the GTO outline, cut the opening with a Dremel cutting wheel, grind the lip off the GTO plate, and JB-Weld it into the Firebird shell (add a couple of gussets to beef it up). A custom walnut-veneer insert finishes it off.
Any proposed updates, changes, pictures, and/or corrections, please use our comment section below (may need to click on permalink to access comments feature). Information is subject to change and offered as is without any warranties or guarantees. Please review our Term's Of Use for more information.
Content last modified: June 13, 2026 at 10:06 am
← Frequently Asked Questions
