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Hello... I have a couple questions about some issues regarding the center console on my, new to me, 01 Camaro with an automitic transmission...
1st... the plastic pieces where the shifter is, sounds like the plastic is gonna snap/break each time I go to put it into gear. Is there something that can be used or done to make the pieces move smooth and quietly?
2nd... the previous owner used clear box tape to hold the lid down at one point, apparently to keep the lid closed. I replaced the lid, however, there's still pieces of tape and glue residue on the side of console. What can I use or do, to remove the tape pieces and glue residue without discoloring/ruining the plastic?
1) I've never needed to use anything to lubricate this area on any of my 4th gens, but keep in mind that any sort of lubrication at this point will collect dust/debris and be very difficult to clean. There should not be any sort of significant tension in that area which should require any lubrication in the first place; I wonder if something was removed & reinstalled incorrectly at some point?
2) I've used Simple Green on these types of interior components before, when deep cleaning was necessary. But there are many automotive-interior-safe cleaners on the market. Adhesive is usually tough to remove, so I would probably give the SG a try as it's pretty potent and shouldn't damage anything (assuming the console plastic is healthy and hasn't ever been painted).
You can remove the sliders and install a leather shift boot. You still need the frame that holds the sliders and the "ring" that the shifter shaft pokes through.
At first I used a universal leather shift boot and trimmed it to fit.
1) I've never needed to use anything to lubricate this area on any of my 4th gens, but keep in mind that any sort of lubrication at this point will collect dust/debris and be very difficult to clean. There should not be any sort of significant tension in that area which should require any lubrication in the first place; I wonder if something was removed & reinstalled incorrectly at some point?
2) I've used Simple Green on these types of interior components before, when deep cleaning was necessary. But there are many automotive-interior-safe cleaners on the market. Adhesive is usually tough to remove, so I would probably give the SG a try as it's pretty potent and shouldn't damage anything (assuming the console plastic is healthy and hasn't ever been painted).
Never even thought about debris build-up. Now that you mention it, that would probably make things worse. I keep forgetting about Simple Green. I used it YEARS ago on another car I had. I will give that a shot for sure.
You can remove the sliders and install a leather shift boot. You still need the frame that holds the sliders and the "ring" that the shifter shaft pokes through.
At first I used a universal leather shift boot and trimmed it to fit.
That's an AWESOME idea! Didn't realize you can switch ***** and use a boot. I need to replace the slideout cupholder anyway, so making the switch at the same time would be a time saver for sure.
It sounds like it is dirty. I would remove it and get some totally awesome diluted 5:1 then get you a lug nut brush and make sure it’s a good boars head. Keep cleaning it. Someone probably spilt something on it at some point and it sticking when you are moving the shifter.
It sounds like it is dirty. I would remove it and get some totally awesome diluted 5:1 then get you a lug nut brush and make sure it’s a good boars head. Keep cleaning it. Someone probably spilt something on it at some point and it sticking when you are moving the shifter.
Now that you mention it, it does feel like/sound like something WAS spilled on it. That sticky feeling when I go to put it into gear.
01 Camaro Center Console Questions... 
