Topic: shift console plate
in Forum: C4 Interior
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I have a 96 Collectors Edition. I would like to replace my shift console plate. This is an automatic. Has anyone done this? It is as easy at is may look from the part pictures on web sites like Corvette Mods?
https://www.corvettemods.com/C4-Corvette-1990-1996-Shift-Console-Plates_p_7122.html?gclid=CjwKCAjwmq3kBRB_EiwAJkNDpxpzHtJD5dv27vA8on1LlgqOShOHVc4ImfRxFgNmdcigk_-QSnxfwBoCaJwQAvD_BwE
Thank you in advance for your help!
Jim
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Cleburne, TX - USA
Joined: 2/27/2016
Posts: 10
Vette(s): 1996 Polo Green Coupe
1996 Silver Collector Edition Coupe
Changing it is easy. The hard part is finding one with a finish close enough to the original finish and texture that you’ll be happy with. You have to remove the console lid, but other than that it’s a no-brainer. Also, you have to be careful to get the gear indicator in the groove. You’ll see it when you get it off...
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Scottsdale, AZ - USA
Joined: 7/8/2014
Posts: 31
Vette(s): 1988 Dark Red Metallic Convertible with sports seats, Delco/Bose radio system, Z52 suspension
I replaced my console plate in my '88 a few years ago. It was not that big of a deal but I suggest you look on YouTube as there are many videos about removing the center console and replacing it. To remove the automatic gear knob, you will need a tool that can remove the metal ring under the shifter nob. This ring holds the knob to the linkage. You need to be aware that the P-R-N-D-L plate is held in place with some push in plastic plugs that are pretty brittle. Other than that, the replacement was fairly straight forward as I recall.
FYI, I also added an additional light to better illuminate the PRNDL plate. This was an easy install since all you need to do is tap into the rear-most light on the plate with the new light connector. I don't remember which Corvette vendor I bought this light from but they should be easy to find at Eklers's, Corvette Central, Mid-America, ZIP, etc.
Since you are going this far with the center console and plate removal, you may want to tap into the cigarette lighter wiring and run a lead from the lighter to the actual center console so you can add an AUX port for charging phones, iPods, etc. It may involve drilling a hole to fit the wiring or a receptacle device but that was not a big deal either when I did this. It made the car a lot more functional on longer trips.
Good Luck!!
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Scottsdale, AZ - USA
Joined: 7/8/2014
Posts: 31
Vette(s): 1988 Dark Red Metallic Convertible with sports seats, Delco/Bose radio system, Z52 suspension
If you are interested in using the accessory wiring you may want to look at this link to describe how to remove the plate and install some other wiring for AUX purposes.
http://www.c4vetteregistry.com/vrforums/c4-interior/gps-mount/482312/
in Forum: C4 Interior
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