Shifter install easier from top or bottom?

[TS6]

Hey guys, I'm installing a B&M shifter in my 97 GTS this weekend and I've read a bunch on here (search button keeps me from having to post much) but I see two ways of installing the shifter and want to know which is easiest? I hate jacking this car up, so if it can be done from the top I prefer that route. But, will I need to remove the whole console or just the trim piece by the shifter area? I understand there is a plate riveted in somewhere? Do I have to re-rivet it in again or can I use screws? I know how to do it from the bottom, just need some details on top side installation. Search button didn't turn up everything I need to know.

Thanks!

 

[CROM]

Doing it from the top is much more involved. Drilling out rivets, drilling a hole so you can get to the lower bolts, etc etc...

You do it from the bottom by placing a good jack under the tranny, removing the trans brace and lowering it down a few inches so you can get to the bolts, etc. None of the drilling required when going from the bottom. There is an illustrated upgrade section with a full writeup, you can't get to it lately without being a VCA member though.

I have a bunch of pictures of what you will be getting into going from the top if you want em.

 

[chimazo]

Here is a how-to for installing a shifter from the bottom, if you decide to go this route. shifter installation

 

[CROM]

Thanks for posting that!

 

[TS6]

Thanks, I was looking for that install link forever! I think I'll just go from the bottom, gotta do the skip shift anyway. It'll take me longer to get it on stands than it will to swap shifters!

 

[chimazo]

No problem.

My RT/10 has been on stands for over a month while I take forever performing all the mods while it is in the air.

So far I've done the exhaust and hi-flow cats, Hawk front pads, and detailed the suspension. Like yourself, I still have to do the B&M installation (and while under there, a poly tranny mount, too).

In boxes in the garage still awaiting me getting off my lazy ass:

Billet steering pump mount and metal pulley
JL Audio door speakers
1.7 rockers
SCT Tune

 

[VIPER BAZ UK]

Done a few now and dead easy from under the car...And no drilling..

 

[dave6666]

Done a few now and dead easy from under the car...And no drilling..

Plus, with a Texas edition creeper, it comes with cup holders for your beer. Still haven't found the ones inside my GTS, making one handed work imperative.

Underneath it is!

 

[grcforce327]

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