Front Ashtray

[dreavis]

I have a 1977 Spider and I noticed today (for the first time) that the metal ashtray in the front was quite warm after the engine reach normal driving temp. This may have been happening since I got the car a few months ago and I never noticed. Is this normal for this car?
Thanks

[SunnySideUp]

The inner shift boot has probably perished or is missing allowing engine and exhaust heat to blow up under the console and heat things up. Relatively simple fix and will make a big difference in keeping the cabin cooler.


http://www.autoricambi.us/product/TR3-4 ... fter-Boot/

[dreavis]

"relatively simple fix" the words that strike fear into the heart of any novice.

Since I will have to remove the center console, is there anything else I should look into while I'm doing this?

Thanks

[riverdadd]

if i remember. that "seal" goes between trans and trans tunnel from underneath the car. u shouldn't have to remove the console. i installed mine by removing gear shifter and fanegeling it in from below

[baltobernie]

I have an intact inner boot, plus better-than-OE floor insulation, and my ashtray gets warm after a while. So does the shift lever, heater controls, etc.

These older cars don't have the creature comforts of modern designs. I say leave it alone.

[dreavis]

Thanks Bernie. I'll leave it until I have reason to do something else in that area and then I'll check it.

[GeorgeT]

The toughest part of that fix is removing the gear shifter knob. Order a new knob clip when you order the boot.