Looks like the boot is an integral part of the shift knob(?). What's the technique for removing them? I want to install a Zebrano knob -- will I also have to purchase an aftermarket boot?

Thanks for feedback.

Brian

If you pull up the wood, you will see the locking mechanism under there.

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Benzmac:
1981 280GE SWB
1987 16V
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

On the stick shift 16V the boot comes with the knob! Never seen aftermarket on this car!

I put a carbon fiber knob on a 5-speed 16 valve for a guy a while back. If I remember right, what I did was use a shifter from a plain old manual trans 190 that has a removeable vinyl shift knob.All the 16 valves with manuals had a leather knob with built-on leather boot.
I had to use a stock vinyl boot and just mounted the new knob to the "non-16v" shifter chrome. You might be able to get a non 16 valve manual shifter from a salvage yard. I got mine from one of my "parts" cars but it was my only one.

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Alain:

Thanks for the input. I understand the "knob-side" of the shifter equation (I used to own a 1984 190E and had replaced the stock knob with a Zebrano knob). However, what about the "bottom-side"? Do I need to locate a matching model year shifter (i.e. - 1986), or will any range of years work? I plan to have my shop install; is there any "gotchas" I should be aware of? Additional parts I may have to furnish?

Thanks!

Brian

Brian, I don't think there are any differences in the bottoms. It should be a simple swap.

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