Topic: HELP! - Installing 4 speed T Handle shifter upper boot

[wcampbell]

I'm trying to install a new 4 speed shifter boot on my existing '65 lever. Given the T-handle is still intact what's the trick to installing a new one? Any pros willing to give the secret would be much appreciated!

[Asm109]

Stretch it.  It will go over the T handle.  Even old cracking original boots will stretch over the T

[FunStang65]

Soak the rubber boot in nearly boiling hot water for a few minutes to get it soft and then stretch it over the T-handle using a long-handled screw driver as a leverage bar to get it over the t bars. It will work like a charm and it will not rip or tear. I had the exact same question a few years ago and someone gave me this same advice. It worked perfectly.

[T Lea]

hair dryer

[Bob Gaines]

The repros stretch easier without tearing compared to the originals. Heating the boot up wether in hot water or heat gun/hair dryer +1. Bob

[Danno1325]

Hello - I am having trouble trying to install a replacement shifter boot on my 65 convertible.  It has the original 4 speed with the reverse lock out levers on the shifter handle and the hole in new boot is not big enough to stretch over the levers.  Is there some trick to getting this thing installed correctly?  I have a NOS boot and I am worried about stretching it too much as it may rip and it was hard enough finding the NOS one the first time around.  Any help and guidance is greatly appreciated.   

[CharlesTurner]

You either try your luck stretching it over or send it off to someone like Bill Heeley to have him take the cable out so the T can be removed.  Then slide the boot on and re-attach the cable.

[jwc66k]

Put the boot out in the sun, preferably on a very warm (75-80F) day for an hour or two. It "may" have enough elasticity to make it over the "T" bar. Careful, it will be hot.
Jim

[midlife]

Of course, you can only put the boot over one side of the t-handle at a time.  I typically use a big screwdriver to help deform the rubber boot.  I've never torn a boot.

[Danno1325]

Thanks for the insight I really appreciate the help.  I feel better about stretching the boot and using a screwdriver if you haven't torn one doing it that way.  I appreciate the advice!

[preaction]

The shifter is a factory stick with the T handle for reverse lockout and I cant seem to figure out how to disassemble it ( T handle ) to replace the boot without damaging it.

[Asm109]

Stretch the boot over the T.  It will go.

[preaction]

It just didn't seem like that would work with out tearing but I will try thanks.

[jwc66k]

Replace the boot on a warm day, or at least get it soft in very warm water, like 110-120F.
Jim

[Bob Gaines]

Replace the boot on a warm day, or at least get it soft in very warm water, like 110-120F.
Jim

+1.