Shifter boot malfuntion - 1987 5000

[Eric_R_Kissell at whirlpool.com]

I have the leather shifter boot on my 1986 5000cstq attached with big paper
clips.

The plastic clips on the shifter boot frame had broken so I used epoxy to
attach large paper clips in the same locations. The paper clips fit into
the slots in the center console that the previous plastic clips used to
engage. I spread the inner and outer hoops of the paper clips in opposite
directions (scissor like) to provide retention force. As I recall, with the
right amount of bending, the inner and outer loops act in a spring fashion,
so I could hold them "closed" to get each started in a slot and then it
would open up as the paper-clip-tab was pushed deeper into the slot. The
paper clips are relatively long so, using the tight sequence of
installation, this allowed me to start the clips and then get my fingers
out of the way so I could finish push the boot down into place. Also, I
seem to recall having the side panel off of the center console once and I
could reach one or more of the clips to give it a little extra bend for
increased retention force.

This arrangement has worked for 6 years and had been removed and
reinstalled several times.

Whatever works - baling wire, kite string, duct tape...

HTH,
Eric Kissell
Tiffin, OH 44883
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1986 5000cstq Sedan, Bilsteins, 1.8 Bar (SJM)