How to install firewall shifter bushing?

[cpgpz]

I am replacing all shifter bushings in my 1974 914 2.0. I've got all done EXCEPT the firewall bushing. How do I get it in without breaking it? I have seen "compress it with vice grips". What exactly does that mean? How about heating it with a hair drier?

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

Remove the shift rod from the hole. You'll never get the bushing in with the shift rod still in there.

Heating the bushing in very hot water makes it more pliable. A hair dryer probably would do something similar.

Some folks have cut a slice in one side of the bushing to get it to go in. I'd be cautious of that; it would seem to build in a place for the bushing to start breaking up or wearing out.

--DD

[cpgpz]

Thanks Dave. I have the shift rod out already. I'm working with the bare hole in the firewall. I lubed both the hole and the bushing and used a lot of force, but no go. I will heat the bushing and try again.

[cpgpz]

SUCCESS! I finally put the bushing in pan full of water on the stove and boiled it for at least five minutes. I tried twice boiling for shorter times, but still couldn't get it in. The third time (with considerable effort) it went in. In my estimation this is the best method. The bushing is not buggered up with pliers, etc or cut.

Again, thanks Dave.

[John Rogers]

Jim Patrick at Patrick Motorsports in Phoeniz AZ use to sell a much more stable bushing that has a metal attachment that fastens to the firewall with 3 screws and is way stiffer than the stick one. There is also an aftermarket bushing that is an aircraft type of U-Joint that fastens the two sections of the shift rod together much stronger than the cast alloy joint from the factory.

[BadToTheBown]

Chris Foley (Tangerine Racing) also has a nice spherical bushing....