While replacing the shifter bushings on my 1982 4x4 5-speed, I was hoping to be able to put a new boot and knob on too, but I cannot get the knob off for the LIFE OF ME. I used vice grips on the rod and turned counter clockwise with my hand on the knob, used a heat gun, had my bf who is way stronger than me try as well and it just won't budge. I'm thinking maybe a former owner crazy glued it on or something? I've almost thought about sawing it off or taking it to my mechanic. Any tips? Thanks!

 

Hello!
I gotta say, this is a new one for me.

A few thoughts off the top of my head:

Did you try and remove the knob while the shifter was still mounted in the transmission? Perhaps that would be able to hold the shaft better than the vice grips?

Is the shaft slipping in the vice grips or are they holding the shaft fine but the knob is still not budging?

Maybe put the shifter back in the transmission and grab the knob with some large channel locks? Maybe also with heat?

You could saw it lengthwise with a hacksaw until you are getting close to the threads and then break the rest with a chisel. I've done that for many a stuck fastener in the past. Just have to be careful to not cut into the threads on the shaft.

I'll keep my thinking cap on for ya. Good luck!


Regards,

Sam

 

Put shifter in vise. Attack knob with large pipe wrench.

 

Drill a hole in the top of the knob, put penetrating oil after reaching shifter. After a couple of hours try to unscrew the knob again. Maybe that helps to break down the glue.

 

The shift boot is in beautiful shape! Is it stock or aftermarket?

 

Mission accomplished. I had tried to take it off for months while it was in my truck, would not budge even with a heat gun. This afternoon I ended up listening to some advice on here, drilling in the top and adding penetrating oil, then finally just took a hack saw to get down to the hard plastic (it was indeed super glued on) picked away at it and then smashed it with a hammer and it came off. I was able to add the boot and new knob. Yotatech community for the win!! Thanks y'all

 

I've got a lot of little projects with redoing the interior (Classic car stereo install, dash pad repair, reviving mud flaps, rust repair, etc.) so I'll try to post again soon!

 

Shifter boot is indeed aftermarket. Found it on eBay, glued it to the metal frame, and i’m so happy with how it turned out.

Here's a link that helped me with the step by step: https://www.redlinegoods.com/Hilux8183install.php

Here's the link to purchase:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/79-83-Toyot...UAAOSwr0ReOLOi

 

Glad you posted this PNWventures. My shift knob is the same way. I have a new knob but can’t get the old one off. Thanks!

 

Glad you got it sorted out! Congrats!

Where did you find your new shift knob?

 

looks like I'm going to have to get one coming.

 

EBay as well.