[PeteF]

I've had both Ford and Hurst shifters in many different cars over the years, and agree it's a matter of personal preference . The Hurst feels more positive, with shorter throw and tighter gate pattern, and is probably stronger. When I was younger, the first thing I did was replace the Ford unit with a Hurst. But later, I came to appreciate the feel and sound of the Ford unit, that snicks through the gears with a slight click with each gear change. The smoothest shifter I ever owned was on my 64 Galaxie XL with a toploader, all factory, and I never had to adjust it. You should be able to rebuild yours to the same level of smoothness. You won't be disappointed either way, good luck. My $.02