Steeda Tri-Ax Shifter Install

Hello all, Just installed a new Steeda Tri-Ax shifter in my 96 GT this past weekend and ran into an interesting situation. The original rubber boot(s) were badly worn and the small inner boot that covers the shifter opening in the top of the transmission tore as did the larger boot that covers the hole in the floor. I noticed that Steeda does not make any reference to the smaller boot when doing the re-installation. However, on-line references say that it is a good idea to use it to keep dirt and dust out of the top of the shifter. (Makes sense to me since the larger boot does not form a tight seal at the top of the shifter where it goes into the transmission) Unfortunately, if you use both of these boots (small inner boot AND larger outter boot), you can not attach the shifter handle in the lowest position for shorter throws...Steeda provides a washer that goes over the shifter lever before you start installing the boots again. This washer keeps the boot from causing interference with the stop bolts when you start to shift...without it, your shifter wants to stay in the middle because the rubber is pushing it back to center.

I love the shifter, much more precise than the old 167,000 mile worn out stock one. I just wish I could use both boots and still get to the lower lever mounting position. Without the inner boot, I see lots of debris, junk and even water getting into the transmission from the top. Seems like Steeda would have thought about this and perhaps came up with their own version of the inner boot that would have eliminated this problem.

Oh well, guess I'm done with mods to my GT for a while now since I'm having her shipped to Maui, Hawaii next week...Job is sending me there for a couple of years, and it seems to be hard to get parts shipped there. So you guys here on the "mainland" drive safe and keep the shiney side shiney and the rubber side burning! Aloha to all and stay safe!

In the directions for my Pro 5.0 it had me cut the hole bigger on the lower boot and stretch it around the round part of the shifter base. It forms a pretty tight seal and I am sure the same thing would work for your Steeda.