Shifter stuck in shift arm.. Help?

[stevetrocs]

I am trying to install a z3 shifter but I am unable to get the old shifter out of the shift arm. I seems to be suck in the bearing. Tried to lube it but still won't budge. Any ideas??
Thanks

[Jean]

Late model or early shifter console?

In the late model kind you "squeeze" and I think turn the plastic bushing that the shifter sits in, and the early kind has a c clip.

[Wh33lhop]

I have an '87 "i" car, I had the nylon bushing that you had to twist. It is a bitch and very frustrating (get a new one as you are going to break tabs on the old one, they're like 5 bucks), probably took me 15-20 minutes just to get it to turn, but when you start it, it's cake.

I used two flathead screwdrivers to turn the bushing.

[stevetrocs]

I was able to get it to turn but it wouldn't move after that. I guess I will get a new one. Does anyone know the exact name to search for?
Thanks

[StereoInstaller1]

I am trying to install a z3 shifter but I am unable to get the old shifter out of the shift arm. I seems to be suck in the bearing. Tried to lube it but still won't budge. Any ideas??
Thanks

[stevetrocs]

The only way I can think of to get it out is to either break it or take out the complete shift mechanism. I don't want to drop the trans so I guess I will break it and just replace it.

All those who helped. Thanks

[scottinAZ]

shift handle will come out through the top of the bracket, so get the boots off the inside, and it should lift out. Once the catches are released, its just friction holding it in.