restoration ideas!!

[Maverick_82]

I'm writing an expository report for my college english class; my topic is the restoration of a third generation f-body. I know alot about the process; however, i'm experiencing writer's block so i could use some help thinking up some topics to add. They have to be somewhat simple and i can involve diagrams; using wet/dry vac to clear out leaves and such, stuff like that. if you could post either of the two i would appreciate any help, thanks. I forgot all of my repair manuals at home, lol.

[Nightrage]

The dashboards on those are infamous for cracking. Also, how about replacing headlight motors, scrubbing off surface rust with a wire brush, weatherstipping repair, replacing the center console/ shift boot, carpet and headliner repair. How about a "simple" tune up (no such thing as a simple tune up on an F-body ). What about discussing the importance of upkeep and maintainance and how simple things such as checking fluids regularly can prevent major problems in the future? Anyhow, good luck

[Maverick_82]

the only simply tune up i've ever heard of on an fbody is replacing a fuse. would getting gas count? lol.

Thanks for the input

[Maverick_82]

After removing the front and back seats, what the the PROCEDURE for removing the center console? How do you remove the knob on the shift? need details please.

[DeWynter]

Center console Removal:
-Flip open console remove two screws at front of console cubby hole.
-Remove ashtray, then the screw under it.
-Remove shifter knob (auto requires a small clip removed from front of handle)
-pry up (very carefully) on center section of console. This is especially important for people with electric mirrors, as the center section is very week where the electric window and mirror controls are. This section is held down with clips.
-Undo wires from controls (wires are short carefull here too!)
-remove the center section (carefull with shifter boot on standard)
-undo 6/4 bolts that hold down console. two at back two up front(sometimes 2 in middle).
-remove console!
This is only good for cars I have woirked on! 86+ firebirds

[Maverick_82]

DeWynter, thanks alot. i never could get an answer to how to remove the shift knob.

[Maverick_82]

DeWynter, i looked for that clip that you said was on the shifter. i didnt find it.

[DeWynter]

its like a staple stuck into the shifter from the front, all it does is sit in a grove in the shifter shaft. you have to grab it with some pliers and pull it stright out. Only on autos, standards just twist off

[DeWynter]

The older round style of auto shifter might not come off the same way. Ive inly ever had the T style handles with the thumb button.

[Maverick_82]

The following was not typed with hostility:

I may not know all there is to know about the shifter assembly, but I'm quite good when it comes to logic. When I shake the shifter head, it pivots with an almost 360 degree range. This suggests that it is connected in center point somehow, but there release button for the shifter is there. Is there a way to remove the thumb press?