Hi, I just bought an 80 Vette and want to change the automatic shifter boot. I have the new boot and thought I'd ask before I tore the whole dash apart. I need to know how to remove the shifter panel. Thanks. Harleyboy52

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The only tricky part of tearing out the center console... there is a little plastic thing attached to the shift lever that points to the P_R_N_D_2_1
under the see through plastic. If you forget about it, it will snap off when you tug on the black plastic console. Fortunately, they cost like $3, but can put a wait into your project while Ecklers ships you a new one.

Other than that, the job is straight forward, nothing really tricky. Remove the side carpetted pieces, unscrew the console itself (obvious once the sides are out of the way, 2 screws on each side or something like that), slide out the **** indicator needle, unhook the switches, open the ashtray door, and you are there. For about $40, you can replace the black plastic console itself while you have it ripped apart...

bill.

 

Thanks Bill, I figured that the console was attatched on the sides but I didn't want to try to tear out the carpet sides until I was sure. Thanks again. I'll install it tomorrow.

 

I replaced the leather boot on my 79 and didnt have to remove the console. TWIST off both *****, remove screws that hold boot in, slide boot off, install new boot. the rubber boot is a different story or your year may be different.

 

Hi Phill, I was just going out to try to replace it and saw your reply. My new leather boot has a metal rectangular rim around the bottom of the leather. I don't think that this metal will go in from the top and mount under the console. I think that mine has to be put in from the underside. I'll let you know in a little while.