Reinstalling Gearshift Chrome Tube

[Nitrate]

1981. 2000. In order to remove the lower console I had to remove the chrome gearshift tube. I did this by releasing the white plastic retaining clip at the bottom of the tube. I needed to compress the small tabs on the retaining clip to do this. I'm at the point where I'm ready to reinstall the chrome gearshift tube. The manual says to install the plastic retaining clip into the tube before placing it over the steel gearshift shaft. Then tap the top of the chrome shaft with a plastic mallet to seat the retainer on the steel gearshift shaft. Is this the best way to go or should I reinstall it by pushing it up into the chrome tube after it has been lowered onto the steel gearshift shaft? Similar to the way I removed it. Thanks RB

[lglade]

Definitely pre-load the retainer parts back into the chrome tube. And you shouldn't have to beat it back on either; a gentle whack or two with the mallet should be enough to reinstall it.