How do I Remove Gear Shift Knob - 81 Spider 2000?

[MikeBradbury]

Hi - I am replacing the cabin insulation and carpeting in my 81 Spider 2000 and I have not been able to remove the gear shift knob. It's one of the wooden ones and I would like to either sand it down and re-varnish it or replace it with a silver one. But I can't get it off! I have assumed that it can be unscrewed, but it is very stiff and so far I have been unable to get it to move.

Has anyone else had the same problem? Any advice welcome.

Mike

[tima01864]

Some are nutted to hold in place. Mine isnt but if I can find the right nut i will do that. If it was loctited or epoxied heat is your only solution

[MikeBradbury]

Thanks for your help. I solved the problem by prising out the plastic clip holding the outer shift sleeve on to the actual shift lever. It looks like this is integral with the wooden knob and anyway, I don't need to separate the knob from the sleeve to renovate it, so I won't bother.

Mike

[aj81spider]

It's not integral. The wooden knob screws on to the shaft. It may have gotten frozen, but with some penetrating oil and a little force it should come free.

I've refinished a couple of those knobs - it may be easier off the shaft (especially any sanding), although the shaft will give you something to hold when you finish it.