Found an old thread by David Pozzi showing how to relocate my shifter to it's original position so I've decided to try and give it a go. Pictured is the first half of the move, I fabricated a new relocation plate using 3/8" aluminum plate instead of steel, moving the shifter 1 1/2" down and 1" forward. Next I will have to change the husrt shifter making a stick adapter extending it up 1" and 2" to the right. Hope it works out.
My sound deadener showed up today along with my new Dynatech 3 1/2" aluminum driveshaft. I'll get these items installed as soon as I get the hurst shifter relocated.