Why does the console gear shift on my 69 firebird 400 with Turbo hydra matic auto trans have additional linkage from the trans to the back of the steering column? Is it part of an electronic safety switch assembly or did my bird originally come with column shift?

its a steering and transmission lock

the linkage locks the transmission in park when you take they key out

It is also for your backup lights.

they all are designed w column shift ,then a linkage to the console...if you check the column when you use the shifter ,you`ll see it move...that part is for back up light and park lock, as thats the stock set up

DOn't forget the '69 has the neutral safety switch is in there too. If you remove the linkage you lose all the above functions.

It is very common to find this linkage unhooked when a previous owner installed headers.

Thank you everyone for helping out a newbie. This forum is a great resource.