I used the butt-end of an old toothbrush to get down into the teeny little hole where the pivot ball goes. Used my finger to apply the rest, including to the shifter assembly itself.

 

just got this done.. took about 30 mins. didnt break any tabs on the white ring.

shift great now!

 

Took out for a drive tonight. It felt still very stiff and it looks like I need to grease on more! I guess I need to use up at least half can!

 

Don't be shy with the grease. Pack lots in there. My first attempt cured the rattling for a week or so, then I had it apart again for more lube action. That was a long time ago and it's been great ever since.

 

1. How long does this take? In reading the DIY it can't be done in 1/2 hour?!
2. It looks like a 1.5 to 3 hr. job for the novice.

 

I think it took me about 1.5 hour to do it without the DIY and take pics. I'd say a first timer can do it in an hour, and after that, 30 min.

 

1. I'm afraid I would break the clips just trying to get the stuff off around the shifter, the console/whatever; the DIY that I saw didn't have to much info about that.

 

I didn't break the plastic ring, but I did break the new plastic tip. Make sure you soar in hot water or heat it up before putting on. Just get the plastic rind and new pivot ball before doing the job, they are cheap.

 

To remove console stuff, first make sure interior is warm. On the passenger side, about as far back as where the e brake handle is, you will find an indentation that you can get your hand in. From drivers seat, reach over and feel around for this, then lift up on this 'handle'. Console top will pop up.

You'll need to remove shifter ball, and unplug the connections revealed from ligting the top. You may need to pull up hand brake too. But then you'be able to fully remove console lid, and expose the shifter base, to get at the bolts needed to remover shifter and apply grease.

 

1. Plastic ring: $6.14
2. Plastic ball cap: $22.60

3. Why does the plastic ball cap or "tip" need soaked in hot water?