4-speed gearshift lever removal and reinstallation for new carpet

[got2haul]

I'm installing new carpet this weekend.  I want to remove the 4-speed shifter so it'll be easier to mark and cut the hole for the shifter.  I looked in the service manual and it says to use a certain tool (J-8109, if my memory serves me correctly) to "press down and turn counterclockwise to release the shift lever for removal.  Pretty vague.  It normally shows at the end of the chapter what the tool looks like, but they neglected to include that particular tool.  Could anyone who has done this before enlighten me?  Can the shifter be removed and reinstalled with a common tool?

[Toolmaster]

Have you removed the boot ? 
You might be able to use some large snapring pliers, Look at the retainer and see what type of slot's are cut for the tool. Might just have to push the retainer down and rotate. Be sure to have the trans in neutrel before removing the shifter.

[got2haul]

No, I haven't yet removed the boot.  This is a job I intend to do Saturday.  I did a Google search and found some information -- a couple threads on other forums ask the same question.  One reply was that you can use two screwdrivers (on in front and one in rear) to press down, and with a third hand, turn the retainer counterclockwise 1/8 turn.  Problem is I only have two hands!  Maybe it can be turned with the screwdrivers while pressing down?

What about reinstalling it?  Does it simply pop back in, or do you have to go through the same thing to install it?

[Toolmaster]

Yep ! Reverse order to install.
It's not that hard to do, Be sure to clean the area or any dirt buildup as to prevent dirt entering the trans. Stuff a rag in the hole after you remove the shifter to keep it sealed up and wrap one around the shifter to keep the grease from soiling your new carpet.

[VileZambonie]

Push down and rotate the cup while in Neutral with your special tool. That special tool would be your fingers. That's it... then just pull the shifter straight up. You'll see the 2 roll pins will be lined up in the grooves to remove it. I assume you have a granny tranny

[Toolmaster]

If it looks dry around the retainer then spray some PB Blaster around it first.  It's that easy !

[Captkaos]

I agree, all you need is your hand to push it down and spin it to get the shifter out.

[got2haul]

This can be done without tools?  Cool.  I just happen to have some PB Blaster, too.  Thanks for the responses!

[ccz145a]

PB Blaster

Uh, That would be "Weasle Pee", wouldn't it Blazin? 

[75 C20]

i gotta say- the one on my 75s tranny poped right out no problem. but my 79 was really stiff and it was veyr hard to get out- like the spring was real stiff on it

[got2haul]

The shifter came out pretty easily.  Thanks!

[Blazin]

Yes it would be!
I have had a few over the years that turned hard. I just use my monster channel locks then.