1987 Ford 2WD Manual Trans Shift Lever Removal
The 1987 Ford 2WD manual transmission shift lever removal procedure involves safely removing the gear shift lever from manual transmission vehicles. This guide covers proper tools, step-by-step removal process, safety precautions, and reassembly instructions for 1987 Ford trucks and vans with 2-wheel drive manual transmissions.
Tools and Materials Required
Essential tools for proper shift lever removal and installation.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|
| Socket set (3/8" drive) | For removing shift lever bolts |
| Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips) | For boot removal and retaining clips |
| Pliers | For clip and pin removal |
| Torque wrench | For proper bolt tightening |
| Shop towels | For cleaning components |
| Transmission fluid | For topping off if needed |
| Safety glasses | Eye protection |
| Work gloves | Hand protection |
Safety Precautions
Important safety measures before beginning removal procedure.
- Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake.
- Disconnect battery negative terminal to prevent electrical issues.
- Allow transmission to cool if vehicle was recently driven.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
- Use jack stands if working underneath vehicle.
WARNING! Transmission components may be hot. Wear gloves and eye protection. Ensure vehicle is securely supported.
Removal Procedure
Step-by-step shift lever removal process.
- Remove shift boot: Carefully pry up shift boot from console or floor mounting.
- Expose shift lever: Lift boot to access shift lever mounting area.
- Remove retaining bolts: Use appropriate socket to remove shift lever mounting bolts.
- Detach shift lever: Carefully lift shift lever straight up from transmission housing.
- Inspect components: Check for wear on lever, bushings, and mounting surfaces.
CAUTION! Do not force shift lever. If stuck, check for hidden fasteners or clips.
Shift Lever Components
- Shift Lever: Main lever assembly with shift knob.
- Mounting Bolts: Typically 10mm or 13mm bolts securing lever to transmission.
- Shift Boot: Rubber or leather cover protecting shift mechanism.
- Bushings: Wear components that provide smooth shifting action.
- Retaining Clips: Spring clips securing lever in transmission housing.
- Dust Boot: Prevents dirt and moisture entry into transmission.
Inspection and Cleaning
After removal, inspect all components for wear and damage.
- Check shift lever ball socket for excessive wear or cracking.
- Inspect bushings and replace if worn or deteriorated.
- Clean shift lever mounting surface on transmission.
- Check shift linkage for proper movement and lubrication.
- Clean and lubricate components before reinstallation.
Tip: Use brake cleaner to remove old grease and debris from components.
Reinstallation Process
Proper reinstallation of shift lever assembly.
- Apply light grease to shift lever ball and socket.
- Align shift lever with transmission housing opening.
- Press lever firmly into position until seated properly.
- Install mounting bolts and torque to specification (typically 15-20 ft-lbs).
- Reinstall shift boot and secure properly.
- Test shift operation through all gears before driving.
WARNING! Ensure shift lever is fully seated before tightening bolts to prevent damage.
Common Issues
Typical problems encountered during shift lever removal.
| Issue | Description |
|---|
| Stuck shift lever | Corrosion or dirt preventing removal |
| Worn bushings | Causing loose or sloppy shifting |
| Broken clips | Retaining clips damaged during removal |
| Stripped bolts | Damaged bolt heads from previous work |
| Damaged boot | Torn or deteriorated shift boot |
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|
| Loose shift lever | Worn bushings or loose bolts | Replace bushings and torque bolts properly |
| Difficulty shifting | Misaligned lever or worn components | Realign lever and inspect for wear |
| Lever won't seat | Debris in socket or damaged ball | Clean socket and inspect components |
| Vibration/noise | Missing or damaged bushings | Replace all worn bushings and cushions |
| Gear selection issues | Improper installation | Remove and reinstall lever correctly |
Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance for optimal shift lever performance.
- Inspect shift boot regularly for tears or damage
- Lubricate shift mechanism annually with appropriate grease
- Check mounting bolt torque during routine maintenance
- Replace worn bushings before they cause shifting problems
- Keep shift linkage clean and free of debris
CAUTION! Use only transmission-compatible lubricants to avoid damage.
Technical Specifications
- Bolt Size: 10mm or 13mm (verify for specific model)
- Torque Specification: 15-20 ft-lbs (20-27 Nm)
- Transmission Type: Manual 4-speed or 5-speed
- Drive Type: 2-wheel drive
- Lubricant: High-temperature wheel bearing grease
- Bushing Material: Nylon or polyurethane
1987 Ford 2WD Manual Trans Shift Lever Removal Guide © - All Rights Reserved 2025