I have a new shifter boot for my 1981 C3 Coupe and the instructions describe having to get into the console and unbolting the shifter in order to install the new boot. My question is: can the shifter **** be unscrewed? I can unscrew the button, but the **** seems tight. It seems like it would be much easier to slip the new boot over the top of the shifter rather than disassembling the unit from the console.

 

I assume you have an automatic? Yes, the shift **** does unscrew, and yes, the only way to replace the boot, is by removing the console.

Once you unscrew the push button, the black plastic ****, should unscrew, but after 37 years it may not be easy to get off.

As far as the boot goes, it has to be installed from the underside. There is a lip on the underside of the console, and there is a rectangular metal frame, inside the boot. The dimensions of the metal frame are slightly larger than the console lip, so the frame goes around the lip underneath and 4 screws go through the lip from the topside, and into the frame of the boot to secure it. You can't even get the old boot out, without removing the console, because it comes out from underneath also.

Removing the console is a pain, but not impossible. The first thing you have to do is remove the carpeted side panels, which are secured by three screws on each side, that are sort of hidden in the pile of the carpet, You'll have two screws at the back of the console, attaching it to the arm rest, two more at the front, attaching it to the center gauge bezel, and a couple more on each side, that you'll see when you get the carpet panels off. Once you have all of the screws out, you should be able to move the console enough to unplug the window switches, and heater controls, though you may find it easier to do if you loosen the center gauge cluster and the arm rest. It may also be easier to remove the three screws from the heater control, and leave it's hoses connected, then disconnecting the hoses and removing the control with the console.

If you have an Assembly Manual, it's all shown in there, and if not, you really should get yourself one.

 

I will try and help you. I replaced my shift boot on a 73 manual Vette. First you need to remove the shifter ball by turning counter clockwise, next remove the spring, and finally the reverse lever. . Second remove the console plate (chrome with engine specs , 4 screws), since you don’t specify the year, I will not mention fiber optics for the light bulbs. Once you have the console chrome plate off, you will see four screws that hold the boot in place (underside of plate). I bought a leather boot on eBay and it did not have the metal ring where the screws are located. I believe all the US vendors have the boots with the metal ring at the top. Let me know if you have a question.
Eli

 

The OP does mention the year, he has an 81, which has a completely different console and shift plate, than 68-76's. The 77-82 plastic consoles come apart differently than earlier ones, and the boot attaches a little differently.

Also, he mentions removing the push button, but not being able to remove the ****, which sounds like an automatic shifter, so it wouldn't have the lock out T handle the 4 speed shifter has.

 

Thanks guys.....I'll report back when the job is finished, but it may be a while as the car goes into the garage shortly while my bride and I seek cooler summer weather in the Adirondack Mtns of NYS.