Just bought a '51. Trans. lever positions are almost straight up and down vs. the 45 dgree angle I'm more used to. Is this typical?

How does it shift?

It shifts OK, a little stiff. The main problem is I'm 6'2", and 1st and 3rd are just about staight down, hitting my knees.

Have you had someone go through the gears and watch the linkage to see if there is an excessive amount of play?

There is a 9/16" nut down on the shifter lever next to the steering column tube next to the firewall in the engine compartment that adjusts the nuetral position which also affects the 2nd and 3rd shifter lever positions. Nuetral shifter position is normally exactly horizontal. Loosen the 9/16"nut and make the shifter lever move upward as much as you like so in 3rd it won't hit your knees. This adjustment does not affect how it will shift at all.
Bob

Thanks to all. I'll try the tips given.