Question as to Changing out OEM Shifter for 427 style on my AC MK IV

[Brad Griffith]

Never been wild about my OEM shifter on my MK IV. I have owned previous MK IV's in which I purchased a 427 Style forward facing shifter, and a rubber shifter boot and trim ring. I did not do that install myself, but it is clearly not very complex. I removed the stock shifter knob with a pair of channel locks while protecting the knob with a rag....It was on two tighly for me to get it off with my hands alone. Next step is to remove the shifter boot which is constructed of tan leather. I thought it might be secured in the shifter opening by some tabs, but it is not. The leather is secured by a square trim ring of metal under the leather boot...it is not visible. I can feel a screw on each side of the metal retainer, but I cannot get to them, at least not easily. I tried inserting a long screwdriver into the opening of the shifter boot at the top where it meets the shifter threads. But I can not see the screws or identify what type of screws they are, so I am guessing as to the type of screwdriver to use....or if there might be a way to remove the boot without actually cutting the stitching.....any instructions or advice much appreciated. If I ruined the boot it is not the end of the world, but I was hoping to keeping the boot intact if possible. Thanks in advance for your help. Brad