boondoggle10

I have a 2001 std with the 6 speed manual.
I recently purchased a Hurst shift **** and need to know how to remove the factory shift ****. I took the small shift layout cap off the top, but that's all.
The **** is specified for C5 Corvette.

Bill Curlee

Under the shift pattern plastic insert is an aluminum DEMOND KEY..

Clamp a pair of channel lock pliers on the demond key. Use a small ball peen hammer and tap UP on the pliers and that key will or should pop out. Once the key is out, you can unscrew the ****:

Ernest DeMoss

That silver piece of metal you see in the top center is kinda t-shaped. You take two flat screwdrivers and place on each side & pry straight up. Once its out just spin counter clock wise & your done! Not real easy to get out, kinda smashes the leather on each side.

bumble-z

Post #2, by Bill Curly would work best, without damaging anything.

ghostrider98

The previous owner had used the screw driver method and broke the tabs off the key, so if you go that route be careful when prying up on it. Mine was wedged in so tight the vise grips wouldn't even pull it out. I drilled a smile hole in mine and drive a long metal screw into it to give me a better surface to grip. This, along with some beating on the vise grips with a hammer finally got it out. Don't get discouraged, there is a reason they're called demon keys. I've even heard of people resorting to cutting the **** off with a hacksaw. Good luck!

boondoggle10

I did get the demon key out using a screwdriver on one corner and then the other.
I put a couple of layers of duct tape around on the leather shoulders first to pry against.
Thanks for your responses!