Short Shifter Conversion

What gains will I get with this? The short shifter conversion will shorten the distance you have to move the selector to engage the gears. Distance should be reduced by approximately 45%. This will allow you to shift faster and give you a better "feel".

• Disconnect the negative battery cable. Apply the parking brake.
• Remove the left and right extension panels from the front sides of the console. Remove the two screws attaching the console to its supports.
• Remove the cupholder/ashtray by lifting the rear and pulling up. Disconnect the illumination bulb. This can be a little tricky. Lift the little tab, and pull forward.
• Remove the illumination bulb from the cigar lighter by twisting then pulling it out by the connector.
• If you are equipped with power windows, pry the switch panel forward, and lift from the rear. Disconnect the electrical connector.
• Remove the Armrest/Storage compartment. If not so equipped, then pry off the rear console mounting screw covers, and remove those two screws.
• Remove the shift knob by pulling straight up (do not twist)
• Lift the rear of the console, and slide to the rear to clear the parking brake and shift lever. Remove console from vehicle.
• Remove the shift lever boot.
• Pry the cable guide from the front of the shift lever assembly. (this is the thing that prevents the center shift cable from rubbing on the mounting bracket)
• Remove the bolt holding down the shift cables in front of the shifter bracket.
• Remove the four bolts holding down the shift lever assembly.
• Lay the shift lever assembly on its side, and detach the shift cables. Use two screwdrivers simultaneously, to twist off the cables (do not, just pry it off with one)
• Pop off the miscellaneous electrical cables attached to the shift lever assembly, and take it to a solid workbench.
• Mark 2" from the top of the lever. You may remove more if you wish, but 2" will work the best if you have an armrest. Clamp the lever down solidly in a bench vise, or to your workbench. A cutting wheel works best, but for us poor boys, just grab a hacksaw and get to it.
• If you have an aftermarket shift knob, then just remove the burrs from cutting, re-install the shifter. Put on your knob, and have fun.
• If you wish to reuse the stock knob (I am a cheap bastard) then use a bench grinder, or a good old file to cut the top of the shift lever back to its factory profile. Use the piece you just cut off as a guide. If you don't ever plan on taking off the knob again, then just pound the sucker back on with a mallet or something (not recommended).
• Slap everything back together just like you found it. Be careful when you are reinstalling the console. It has a tendency to hang up on the drivers seat lumbar support adjustment. Reconnect the negative battery cable, and hit some twisty roads.

Congratulations!! You just saved a bunch of money.