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Removal of Automatic Gearshift Lever

21K views 21 replies 9 participants last post by  pking911 
#1 ·
I just received this item from quadratech

Drake Off Road JP180023BL - Drake Off Road™ Billet Aluminum Automatic Shift Knob for 97-06 Jeep® Wrangler TJ & Unlimited with Automatic Transmission - Quadratec

They make a similar cover that splits into 2 pcs to cover the parking brake lever and it was very easy to install. However, this "cover" looks nothing like the gearshift selector on an automatic transmission. It looks like it is supposed to replace the gearshift lever. The instructions just tell you to use extra force to remove the plastic "T" handle. Does anyone know what this looks like before i destroy my jeep? I'm afraid to pry off the plastic, when this new product does not look like it will fit. Any help is appreciated. I have a 2004 Wrangler Sport

thanks
 
#6 ·
The TJ's automatic gear shifter handle on top just pulls off, nothing else holds it but friction. Pull the shifter lever down into 'L' and pull the handle straight up off the lever. It takes a bit of muscle but so long as you pull straight up the shaft, it pulls right off.

No, you will not damage the shifter. Just use two hands & it'll pull off.
 
#10 ·
I haven't tried it yet. I keep the jeep in a garage at my mother in laws house. I'm going to give it a try this weekend. I'll let you know if I do it or wimp out. The Drake company responded to my email and send me a picture of what it looks like installed. Here is what he said:

"That is the correct part number for your application and you are correct in that our piece completely replaces the factory T-handle with our knob that has the button on top. I messed with the factory knob sticking a tiny pick up into it from the bottom to release it until I realized you can simply just grab it and pull it off. It’s held on by a plastic collar that’s set into a groove basically and is very simple to pull off.

You remove the OE knob, slide ours over and index the set screw to where ever you prefer and then snug it down. The button is now on top of the shifter and can easily be palmed to activate the shift lever.

Let me know if you have any issues but again, it sounds like you have the correct part and yes, you do simply just pull it and it’ll pop right off. Or at least it has on every jeep I’ve seen and heard about so far. If you find yours is different please let us know ASAP so that we can investigate closer."

So based on that response, I think it just pulls off and you pop the new one on. I don't know how the lever goes from being "side button" to "top button", but I feel comfortable that it will work. I'll let you know.
 
#13 ·
OK......here's the verdict.

I just pulled off the OEM T-handle. It was simple. It pulled right off. Neil F is correct about what is inside the handle.

When you pull off the T-handle, there is a button on top of the metal gearshift. The button on the new cover pushes this button.

I put on the new shifter and it looks and works perfectly. Now I'm a little embarrassed because it was so easy, but without knowing what was under there....caution is always best.

Thanks for everyones input!
 
#19 ·
Did not get the new speakers yet. Might be a nice father's day present though!. Just put in the new head unit and the factory speakers already sound a lot better. I can even feel the crappy subwoofer in the center console. Installation was really easy. Now I just have to figure out how to use the darn thing. My ipod doesn't work with the USB port but my son's does (his is newer). Guess I'll be forced into buying a new ipod too. Woo hoo! Ipod touch here i come!

Put the fog lights on the light bar just to see how it looks. Very nice. Wiring will have to wait for the weekend.
 
#20 ·
i have a new sony headunit I just put in a few weeks back. still using the factory speakers. I am thinking about upgrading them. I also have a small sub behind the back seat and an amp, however I am considering removing them this wekend. I want to be able to keep the top down this summer, and not worry if someone happens to stare inside. I also like to fold the back seat down for hauling and the speaker/amp makes that a pain sometimes.

My Ipod works with my head unit. that is really the only reason I installed a new unit. Man I love my mp3 collection :)
 
#21 ·
I put a sony head unit in as well. I figure once I upgrade the speakers, I'll maybe go to an audio place and get a decent amp for all the speakers plus the sub in the center console. Right now, I'm happy enough with the sound from the new head unit. I'm not going to bother with a sub in the rear/under seat.....too much in a small space. After all, with the top down and doors off, sometimes just the wind is all the music I need.
 
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