Shift Linkage: Service and Repair

Fig. 6 Removing Or Installing Shift Lever Grommet:

On some shift lever assemblies, Fig. 6, an oil impregnated plastic grommet is incorporated in the end of the lever arm. A special tool is required to install the grommet in the manual lever, and to install the manual linkage rod into the grommet.

This grommet should be replaced each time the manual linkage rod is disconnected from shift lever.
1. Place lower jaw of tool between manual lever and shift rod. Position stop in against end of control rod and force rod out of grommet. Remove grommet from lever by cutting off large shoulder with a knife.
2. Before installing a new grommet, adjust stop pin to 1/2 inch and coat outside of grommet with lubricant. Place grommet on stop pin and force into hole in manual lever. Turn grommet several times to seat properly.
3. Adjust height of stop pin as shown in Fig. 6. Height is determined by length of rod end which is to be installed in grommet. If pin height is not adjusted properly, control rod may be pushed to far through grommet, damaging grommet and retaining lip.
4. With proper alignment of stop pin height, position control rod on tool and force rod into grommet until groove on rod seats on inner retainer lip of grommet.