Multi-mode shifter assembly joint

A shifter assembly (10) for automatic transmissions comprising:

• a base (12);
• a detent member (14) supported by said base (12) and defining an automatic (18) and manual (20) shift path and a plurality of gear positions (22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34) within said shift paths (18, 20);
• a transmission control arm (60) pivotally connected to said base (12) for movement about an axis (A) and adapted for connection to a linkage for operating an automatic transmission;
• a shift lever (42) movable through said gear positions (22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34);
• a pivotal connection (80) interconnecting said control arm (60) and said shaft lever (42) for supporting said shift lever (42) on said control arm (60) and pivoting said shaft lever (42) relative to said control arm (60) for changing between said shaft paths (18, 20),
• said pivotal connection (80) comprising a universal connection for pivoting said shift lever (42) relative to said control arm (60) in a plurality of transverse planes,
• said universal connection comprising a ball (84) and socket (82) with one of said control arm (60) and said shift lever (42) including said ball (84) and the other of said control arm (60) and said shift lever (42) including said socket (82).