If you are just lifting the shifter in and out without bushing replacement, it cannot be installed backwards.

However, the large plastic bushing can be installed backwards on the shifter during replacement, allowing the shifter assembly to go in backwards.

This will make 5th and 6th hard to find, as the reverse-detent-tab on the shifter is no longer there as a "wall" between 5-6 and reverse.

 

Thanks for clarifying.

 

I'm 90% sure I put it back on the same way that it came out. all the gears work including reverse. the only one that won't go in is 5th.

 

I figured it out. the new bushings that I installed ended up being cracked. I replaced them with fresh ones, putting them in hot water before hand to insure it would go on the shifter smoothly. Now it works.
thanks for all the help guys. I usually don't post help threads unless I really am stumped. all the comments are greatly appreciated.

 

Thanks, for update post. Glad it worked out okay!