I just need a little help removing the shift ****. I have the correct directions that come with the Nismo ****, but the shift lever that is supposed to be held still with vice grips seems to have a rubber protector around the shaft. Is it ok to put the vice grips around this rubber protector. There is not a location that I can find that is just the bare shift lever. Thanks for the help!

One other thing: This is being done due to the original **** had a tear in the leather when I bought the car a month ago. I asked the dealer if I could just have the **** so I can do it myself. I am scared to death to let the dealer touch the car for fear of scratches or not changing the **** correctly and damaging the Transmission. Horror stories and personal experience with other service departments cause me to feel this way. Am I being too much of a worrier, and should I just let them do it!. Thanks for reading all of this.

 

I think you can pull down the rubber protector

 

invest in a strap wrench, makes the process a lot easier and no damage on the stock ****

 

Like the instructions indicate, get some radiator hose (or thick rubber, as I used) to cover the rubber covering of the shaft. It'll work fine so as long as your grip on the bottom is firm

 

Don't remember when I did mine, but I may recall you might be able to go below the rubber piece. If not, sorry. Just trying to help. Remember to post some pix when you're through. GL2U, "FLZ", Dave