I'm trying to replace the shifter bushing. I pulled the carpet out of the way, and I expected the shifter boot to just be tucked under the carpet. I see instead that it is connected to a metal plate screwed into the floorpan. Do I unscrew, and remove it to get the boots off or what?

 

Yes, you have to pull the plate with the boots up off the shifters. Then you will be able to see transmission and the smaller, inner boot of the shifter...pull up that boot, press down on the shifter flange and rotate counter-clockwise (?I Think?) to loosen the shifter.

Then just pull the stick out and you will be able to see the bushing