Disconnecting the side shifter linkage

[durtkillon]

Anybody have tips on how to remove the clamp that holds the two pieces of the shifter linkage together? The clamp I'm referring to is under/between the two seats to the rear of the floor. I can't get a wrench on both the nut and bolt, so the bolt spins as I turn the nut. Arrg! I want to replace all the bushings, but this bolt is driving me nutty. Any tried methods or tools out there? Thanks!

------------------

[durtkillon]

Correction: this is a tail shifter, not a side shifter.

[TimW]

Try a “crows-foot” socket. It should have enough of an offset to hold the bottom nut.

-or-

See if you can remove the forward linkage from the shift rod head at the bottom of the shift lever. Then, with the rear shift linkage removed as well, see if you can rotate the forward shift linkage so the bolt is horizontal. You should then be able to get at the bolt/nut from the sides.

-or-

With the clamp/bolt as loose as you can get it, sprayed down with your favorite penetrating oil, and with all the linkage from the fire wall back removed...

1. Put the shift lever in 2nd/forward
2. Clamp (vice-grips: be gentle) or block the shift connector rod at the firewall (in the engine bay) to immobilize the rod from moving forward.
3. Shift the shift lever into 3rd/back and try for enough force to slide the front shift rod from the clamp without bending or binding or otherwise wrecking anything.

Worst-case take a dremmel, cut the bolt, and next time around make sure it’s installed in the correct orientation (which it would have to be to tighten it down).

Good Luck.

[durtkillon]

Thank you! It's a new day and my attitude has improved. I will put your suggestions to the test. I refuse to settle for a single speed Porshe.