Removing Shift Lever / preparing clutch replacement

[capejeep99]

Finally getting started to replace the clutch-1999 Cherokee XJ 5 speed manual w 4 wheel drive. Couple of questions.

1) I removed the shifter knob and there's a 2nd rubber boot attached to the console (attached with 5 or 6 small screws). Does that rubber boot get removed by way of removing those 6 screws? And then does it slip over the shifter lever to be removed or is it removed with the shifter lever when that gets removed? And if so, to make things easier, should the console be removed?

2) How do I deal with the 4 wheel drive lever. I'm assuming that also needs to be disengaged and/or removed somehow. Yes?? I can look it up how to do that, but maybe just a bit of help how to start thinking about how to do that??
Thanks very much.

John

 

[capejeep99]

I had meant to post this photo showing the rubber boot I was referring to.

https://flic.kr/p/2rcQKwh

 

[Anak]

Mine is a '96, but if your '99 has an AX-15 (I can't recall when they switched to the NV3500) this should all be about the same:

AX-15 Shifter Overhaul

 

[capejeep99]

Thanks for posting your write up, Anak. Very helpful.
I’m still wondering if the entire console should be removed in order to remove that rubber boot and the shifter assembly or can the rubber boot and shift lever assembly be removed without removing console??

 

[phydeaux33]

Thanks for posting your write up, Anak. Very helpful.
I’m still wondering if the entire console should be removed in order to remove that rubber boot and the shifter assembly or can the rubber boot and shift lever assembly be removed without removing console??

It is much easier with the console removed, and you won't be taking a chance damaging 26 year old plastic. The console comes out pretty easy.