89vette

I just went and removed my stock shifter. I can only get one of the three bolts that hold the shifter mounting plate loose. I was planning on ordering the Hurst shifter but before I break more tools or strip the alllen bolt, does anyone know if it’s the same plate? Any tricks for getting the bolts out if not?

C.W.C.

The plates are not the same and do not interchange. In regards to the frozen Allen bolts, have you tried TIGHTENING a little more them to possibly break any corrosion causing them to bind, sometimes this will work. The plate and bolts are steel and the threaded case is Aluminum and will have different rates of reactions when heat is applied with a small propane torch. If all else fails, I have had good luck with PB Blaster penetrating oil. i suggested the penetrating oil LAST due to it's combustibility if you were then to apply a torch. They will come out with patience, I would suggest the use of anti-seize compound upon reassembly.
GOOD LUCK!
Chuck

Mike Geary

Had the same problem and ended up using a Dremel to slot the screw head to use a right-angle screwdriver.

JL66REDCPE

They are not the same. I went through this with my 66 when I first got it.

89vette

I just pulled the trans instead of wasting time where I could properly heat, shock the bolt and remove. It worked. First time taking trans out. Wasn’t too bad after I read how to do it. Hope it goes in OK as well.