Installing manual trans shift knob insert

[jtksquirrel]

Hey guys. I searched for an answer to this question and couldn’t find one. I’m installing a new shift knob in my 1997 2500 with the 5 speed manual trans. I had to remove the old one to redo the interior. I think most of you know the plastic insert with the shift pattern is rather stiff and fits into a groove in the knob. The new knob is also pretty stiff. I want to get the insert in there at just the right position so it looks right to the driver. Normally I’d use something like hot or water to soften the knob first but that’s not possible after you’ve got it installed. Of course hundreds of you guys have done this on these trucks and the newer models with 6 speeds too. What methods work well? I just rejoined after a couple years of having my truck in storage just to get an answer to this!

 

[JMalik]

If all you want to do is to raise the temperature of the shift knob try a hair dryer. Take your time doing it since some of the high powered hair dryer could overheat your knob before the heat penetrated the knob body.

 

[BigPapa]

I’d suggest one of those hot/cold compress bags or a heating pad wrapped around it for a while. That would heat it up nice without any damage.

-Scott

 

[jtksquirrel]

Thanks for the suggestions guys. I didn’t have a hot compress bag but tried a hair drier and it worked great. I got it pretty warm. The edges of the knob got pretty pliable and I put some sealant in the groove so the insert wouldn’t rotate either. Looks great. Was worried about ruining new parts! I just tried attaching a pic, hope you can see it.

 

[Joe Mc]

Nice!