When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Did you look at the new boot?
I believe it has a fold over section on the bottom that wraps under the trim plate and the screws go through the trim plate into the fold over section to retain it. https://willcoxcorvette.com/corvette...ollector-82-82
The boot goes in from the underside of the shifter plate and requires removing the center console. Looks like it could be done differently but I never found a way, and it's also the way the boot instructions show.
Removing the trim plate is pretty easy, though much easier if you take the seats out. With the side trim pieces removed, you can see the plastic tabs at the rear of the trim tab that are likely to break. Be careful, especially with your low-mileage original trim pieces.
While you are in there, check the lower shift boot, and replace it if it has cracks. It helps to keep heat and smells out of the cabin.
Last edited by Bikespace; Oct 17, 2020 at 08:55 PM.
looks like a winter project is coming soon for me. What do those four screws actually do that are near the boot? Also, see the four bolts to remove seats, mine are not power assisted so looks pretty staight forward. Thanks to all as usual for the help....sure to be more questions but I know where to come for answers!
My seats have been in and out dozens of times. 4 bolts, no electrical connector, easy.
The 4 screws at the base of the shift boot hold the boot in place, by holding a reinforced trim ring in place from the other side. Perhaps if you take the drivers seat out, and the odd-shaped carpeted side trim piece off (3 screws, two you can't easily get to with the seat in place), you can see.
You'll see what I mean if you have a replacement boot in front of you.
EDIT: I found photos of when I did this! I'll add them below.
Last edited by Bikespace; Oct 18, 2020 at 10:27 AM.
Side view with the carpeted trim removed. Bottom view showing the metal ring that secured the black leather shift boot. And the new red shift boot (with a 3D printed magnetic cell phone holder/shift plate). You can't really see the 4 screws, but they are installed.
The bolts may be under a flap of carpet, but they should be there. You may have to feel for the bolt heads. The fronts are easy, then I push the seat forward and get the backs with a long extension. I think it's a 1/2" bolt.
I modified my new carpet to let the seats sit on top, and made sure there was no insulation immediately under the feet. This is NOT the way GM did it, but so many projects are easier in these cars with the seats out.
Willcox may have the instructions for cutting your carpet the OEM way to cover the feet.
Actually, trying to find the bolts under the car, seems like the converter shield is in the way? My seats dont have bolts inside, and they don't spin when loosing them under the car
Can you post a photo? I'm pretty sure that 81s (like 80s) have nuts welded to the floor pans, that take bolts that screw in from above. Maybe I'm wrong, or your car was modified somehow?
Actually, trying to find the bolts under the car, seems like the converter shield is in the way? My seats dont have bolts inside, and they don't spin when loosing them under the car
Was just cruising through the forum, saw this and glanced across the room at the shift plate and boot I just did that is hanging as wall art right now.
Dunno about an 81 but it sounds an awful lot like my 69. My boot has what feels like a metal strip in it. It sits on the plate like a cup and those 4 screws go through that metal strip and secure it to the plate. You might be able to just lift the console plate enough to do it. Maybe this helps
