Gear Shift Tightening

Step one is to remove the center console, if so equipped. Actually, it's probably better for you if it does have one, because then you won't have to go through the hassle of clearing the carpet from around the base of the gearshift boot-retaining ring, which is the next thing that will need to be removed.


At this point, you have the option of removing the gearshift knob, so as to facilitate removal of the gearshift boot. This will make handling the gearshift lever easier, when you finally remove it from the top of the transmission. Most knobs are secured to the lever with right-handed threads, so utter the mantra "lefty loosey" and unscrew the thing. It might take a firm grip, initially, in order to break it loose and get it turning.

Selector Bushing
After removing the boot, it's a good idea to loosely reinstall the knob for safety reasons that should soon become obvious. The next step is to remove the gearshift lever-retaining ring. The gearshift is often spring loaded under its pivot ball, so be careful in removing the retainer, lest the lever behave as a jack-in-the-box in the direction of your face! Wearing safety goggles and having reinstalled the gearshift knob makes this procedure safer.


Now you can remove the lever and observe the bushing end, probably minus the bushing. The pivot area will have grease on it; so, here is where you'll have to be neat, or the consequences will be bad for the interior upholstery. Fish out any pieces of the old bushing if they're within view around the transmission selector assembly.


Don't sweat it if all evidence of the old bushing is gone. The bits are now residing at the bottom of the inside of the transmission. If it makes you feel better (hey, it's actually recommended), drain and fill the transmission with the appropriate lube before returning the vehicle to service.