Shift knob removal

[geminimotors]

Finally found a shift handle at the right price from a member here. It came with an original white knob too. Its time to install the boot and carpet and the shift knob does not want to be removed. I’m tempted to wrap it in leather or rubber sheet and try big channel lock pliers. I’m concerned about cracking 55 year old parts. Anyone have any suggestions for other methods?

 

[Joey4speed]

Make sure theres not a thin "Jam Nut" underneath the shift ball.
If theres no nut, Loctite may have been applied to the threads, so try turning ball wearing tight fitting grip type rubber gloves, or use a rubber strap wrench like in the pic.

 

[geminimotors]

Make sure theres not a thin "Jam Nut" underneath the shift ball.
If theres no nut, Loctite may have been applied to the threads, so try turning ball wearing tight fitting grip type rubber gloves, or use a rubber strap wrench like in the pic.
View attachment 1715580153

No jam nut or anything protruding. I tried the gloves and curse words method first. My brother is a 442/W-30 nerd and he also suggested a strap wrench. I’ll give it a try.

 

[Alaskan_TA]

Some knobs have LH threads, AKA lefty-tighty - righty-loosey.

So if you can see any threads under the jam nut / ball look close.

 

[matthon]

Um, slide the boot on from the bottom, then install the handle.

 

[geminimotors]

Boot hole is too small on the round handles. However to follow up- I wrapped the ball in 1/8” rubber sheet and applied the giant slip joint pliers. Viola! I was nervous and startEd gently. It turned with the slightest effort! Saved $40 and the age & wear on this ball matches the rest of the package.