I've seen several 1948 Chevs at car shows that have a longer metal (non-flattened) gear shift knob vice the plastic ivory-colored "flattened" knob seen on many other 1940's Chevs. Were these metal knobs original or do a lot of 1948s have some sort of aftermarket? Most of the cars appear original in every other respect.

?????????????chef-

I BELIEVE THESE ARE AFTERMARKETS AND ONLY PLASTIC ONES PART #3665490 WERE USED AS FACTORY ISSUED PARTS. I HOPE THIS HELPS. MIKE

Starting in 49 they were no longer flattened but were shorter though.chef-

There were some aftermarket aluminum knobs sold.The 1940-48 knobs were all the same.When it got cold the knobs would break - was always a good seller.The idea behind the flat knob was that the vacuum shift moved the lever so easily all that was needed is your finger tips for shifting - your hand could stay on the wheel.
The knob, when correctly installed has the thinner edge facing the steering wheel.If you look closely one of the flat edges or sides is thinner than the other.

When installing a new knob placing it in hot water softens the plastic slightly and it will go on easier and less chance of cracking.

The most common error with the plastic knobs is
mounting the flat side toward the steering wheel.
Gene is right - the thin side toward the wheel.

You sound like navy communicator - use of the word
"vice" in that way....