Topic: What to use on NOS shift boot?

[Hipo giddyup]

Hi all. I picked up an NOS shift boot for my 66' project and wanted to see what others would use as a protectant/conditioner. I understand that the rubber can become brittle with time so until I get around to using this, what is the best conditioner for it?

Thx Bill

[CandyAppleRed]

Hi Bill,

I use silicon spray on these old rubber parts.

The real challenge with this NOS shifter boot is the installation. Since the rubber lost some of its elasticity, it is almost impossible to stretch the neck wide enough to fit around the reverse detent of the shifter. I tried soaking the rubber boot in warm soapy water, no chance.
Finally, I made a small cut in the neck of the boot and glued it back after installation.

Laurent

[1967 eight barrel]

I just did this on my '67 and tore an NOS boot.  Let it sit out and get really warm in the sun. I used a little white lithium. The spray can be "squeegeed" off the metal trying to pull the boot over. work it over the reverse lockout lever and then pull it over the other lockout arm. Keep it warm and pliable and do it SLOWLY. Sometimes the seams split. The NOS boots are old and dried out. You may destroy it. Don't be shocked if you do. The good reproduction is identical.

                                                          -Keith

[Hipo giddyup]

Thanks for your replies!!
I will use a silicone spray as a conditioner/protectant as recommended. Also, this will be used in my next project which is a 289 3 spd car, I will not have to worry about the lock-out handle, but good info none-the-less. 

[Bob Gaines]

When trying to slip the original boot over the reverse lock out then the water temp needed to soften the rubber so that it is more pliable I have found it needs to be close to boiling . Yes I had to wear gloves when working the boot over the lever because it is hot. The repro boots are much more pliable and don't need quite the treatment to work over the lockout bar. Just what works for me.