Procedure
- Pop the shift knob off, remove the console trim and boot to expose the shifter base from above.
- Underneath, remove the heat shield if fitted, then find the linkage: the shifter rod to the transmission and the stay (support) bar.
- Swap the rear stay bushings first - the big soft factory rubber is where most of the slop lives. The urethane replacements press in by hand with grease.
- Remove the spring pin or clip securing the linkage to the old shifter, drop the old assembly, and transfer the pivot cup to the new short shifter with fresh grease everywhere metal touches plastic.
- Install the new shifter, new front bushing at the linkage joint, and secure with the supplied clips or pins.
- Shift through every gear from below before reassembling the console - adjust per the kit if reverse lockout drags.
- Expect slightly higher effort and more gear noise transmitted through urethane - that's the trade. If it feels notchy when cold, fresh GL-5 gear oil is the companion fix.
Work at your own risk. Torque values and procedures vary by vehicle — always confirm against the factory service manual for your exact model.