Friday, May 2, 2014
How to Remove the Floor Shifter on a 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Removing the shifters from the floor of your Jeep Grand Cherokee for replacement or to access another part of the Jeep requires the removal of the center console. The bolts that secure the shifters are under the console and you cannot get to them with the console in place. The shifters are both mounted in on a bracket so they must be removed as a single unit and replacing one means replacing both. Replacement shifter assemblies are available from the Jeep dealerships parts department or you may find a used assembly from a salvage yard in like new condition, saving you money.
Instructions
- 1
Sit in the drivers seat of your Jeep and set the parking brake. Insert the ignition key into the ignition and turn the key just far enough to unlock the transmission. Depress the brake pedal and shift the transmission all the way to the rear then turn the key back to lock.
2Lift the rubber mat out of the front bin in the console, exposing the retaining screws under it. Remove the screws with a Phillips screwdriver and set them aside.
3Open the armrest on the console and locate the two screws in the base of the compartment. Remove the two screws with a Phillips screwdriver and set them aside. Slide the rear cup holders out to allow you to access the two screws under the rear of the console.
4Remove the rear retaining screws with a Phillips screwdriver. Lift the console up and over the shifters then set it aside.
5Locate the two cables coming to the front of the transmission and transfer case shifts and pry the retaining clips up and off the bracket with a small pry bar. Using a screwdriver, pop the shift cable off the side of the shifter on both sides then lay the cables aside.
6Remove the four retaining bolts that secure the shifters and bracket to the floor of the Jeep with a socket and ratchet. Lift the entire assembly straight off the mounting studs and remove it from the Jeep.
