4+3 shift knob removal

[black86roadster]

I'm exploring all options to get my o/d to function, I see there have been several recent posts regarding sick 4+3 od's, my 86
has same problem, 4-sp (inc. reverse) works great, just no OD!

*replaced relay on firewall
*changed fluid and filter,

hoping the problem may be within the shifter knob,
BTW shifter knob has side to side play in it, however button
is making good contact with od pin.

what is proper way to remove knob & shifter boot to check
that wires are secured, (suggested fix).

86 black Pace car convert, SLP cold air intake, K&N, Flowmaster cat-back, SLP underdrive pullys, 70k miles, love my car, runs great, just havent driven over 60 mph in 3 months, help!

 

[Ken]

Yes, supposedly there is a specific distance that the rod should be screwed into the shifter handle, but to be honest with you, I have never had a problem with losing count of the number of turns I used to remove it, or while re-inserting it. That number is simply to get the button top even with the top of the knob, as well as ensure you don't accidently engage/disengage the overdrive by brushing the button. Obviously if you had it screwed in too far it would prevent release of the microswitch.

I can't quite picture it at the moment, but I also did not pay attention to the instructions for replacing the microswitch. The instructions called for changing the wires while the switch was in place if I remember correctly, but I found it easier to remove the switch in order to change the wires from the old to the new. Just a thought.

As for removing the button from the knob, simply, and gently, pry the back of the button from its retaining clip, then do the same for each side of the front of the button, where it is attached to two similar clips.

Good luck.

 

[Top]

You do NOT have to remove the knob to get to the switch. It is a waste of time to do it.

Remove or loosen the dash gauge panel. Then remove the screws that hold the center radio panel. Pull the right side of the dash bezel out slightly and pull the center panel clear. Unscrew the console panel. There are two screws in the arm rest, don't miss those. Lift the center console up and out pulling up and causing the shifter boot to invert and lay the console on it's side. You can now get to the switch located on the base of the shifter.

And guess what you still have to do all this because the shifter boot is screwed into the bottom of the console panel so there is no way to pull it off if you just took the knob off.

Good Luck!!

 

[BigRed]

No you don't have to remove the knob to get to the switch. However I thought I read that it was loose? Plus its nice to do anyway to clean it etc.. Plus it make this job easier as the boot won't be in your way while working on the switch/wires. This is also a good time to take a look at your reverse throw rod. (Find yourself grinding gears going into reverse?)