Knowing how to install a 240SX shifter can be extremely useful, whether you’re installing a short shifter in your 240SX or filling your transmission with fluid. Today I’ll be showing you how to remove and how to install a 240SX shifter in a 1996 Nissan 240SX Zenki. This vehicle is currently stock with the KA24DE engine and transmission in place.
In order to remove your Nissan 240SX shifter, you need to remove six 12mm bolts that secure the lower shifter plate to the transmission. This can prove difficult if you do not have a short ratcheting 12mm open ended wrench that you can reach the front two bolts and remove them easily.
This how to install a 240SX shifter DIY guide will show you the way to remove those front two bolts without cutting or modifying your driveshaft tunnel in your Nissan 240SX.
If you do not have such a ratcheting 12mm, you can also lower the transmission subframe slightly to give you the added space. This could be handy if you need a transmission flush, as you could get this job done at the same time. In order to do this however, our guide assumes you have already disconnected your exhaust from the header, or removed the midpipe all together for clearance.
Using an automotive jack and supporting the subframe with a piece of wood, loosen the 14mm bolts that hold the brace to the chassis. Lower your transmission, but do not remove the bolts. Do not allow the weight of your engine and transmission to rest on the bolts, this is what your jack is for.
If you require a transmission flush and have drained your transmission already, you don’t have to worry about leaking transmission oil. Lowering the transmission just a few inches will greatly assist you with the proper clearance to reach the 12mm bolts in front.
Now get into your 240 and remove the center shifter bezel by gently pulling upward. Unscrew your stock shift knob or undo the set screws that hold your aftemrarket knob to the shifter. Remove the screws around the shifter base and set them to the side. If you have belongings in your center console, now is the time to clear them out.
Open the center console and remove the two screws located below your center console plate.
Unplug your power mirror controls if applicable and your electrical connections from your center dash and remove the center console completely.
Once you have your center console removed, you can begin removing the shifter base and the four 10mm bolts that hold it in place.
Remove the 10mm bolts and take your shift knob off your Nissan 240SX. Now slide the shift ring and rubber boot upwards to remove them from the shifter.
We’re halfway through our how to install a 240SX shifter DIY guide, and you can now access your shift plate. Begin removing the back four 12mm bolts to your 240SX shifter. If you do not have enough room to reach the front two bolts, try lowering your transmission but don’t over do it.
When the front two bolts have been removed, you can gently pry up on the shifter base to remove your Nissan 240SX shifter.
Carefully remove the shifter and mind the spring and ball assembly that must go back into position as shown. Clean the surface area with a razor blade and carefully remove any debris from your transmission.
Prep your new Nissan 240SX shifter by applying a layer of gasket maker. Dry and clean the area of your transmission as best as possible. When installing your new S14 shifter, tighten the 12mm bolts to specification and you are done.
Congratulations, you now know how to install a 240SX shifter. If you have any questions please leave them for us below.
