Abstract: The present invention is a composite transmission selector lever that avoids the multiple manufacturing steps of current levers and in addition gives a reduction in cost. The lever comprises an elongated, structural element that defines an open interior. An electrically conductive wire for a switch is installed into the open interior. Molding material is applied around the structural element, thereby creating a layered construction with molding material on the outside of the structural element.

Abstract: The present invention is a composite transmission selector lever that avoids the multiple manufacturing steps of current levers and in addition gives a significant reduction in cost. The lever comprises an open-sided, elongated stamped, sheet steel element having a triangular cross section shape with the open end of the triangle curved inwardly. The triangular shape is to provide the maximum bending strength to the resultant structure. One end of the mechanism is crimped and/or welded to fasten over the circular section of a base and the other end is formed to extend to an operator handle. A wire for a switch in the handle is laid through the open side of the element and the composite assembly is overmolded with a high strength thermoplastic material, such as polyamide 6, having a surface finish suitable for an as-molded condition.