Replaced the shift boot this weekend
So, I worked on this replacement this weekend. Basically I took the following steps:
1. Tilt steering column down
2. Pry top cover free from the steering column
3. Unscrew torx screw from exposed shifter base.
4. Pull shifter from it's seated position, while keeping tension off the orange tow/haul wire.
5. Remove knee bolster trim beneath steering column. Two screws need to be removed, and (4) press in metal clips.
6. Unplug orange tow/haul wire, and un-clip wire from (2) points on the steering column.
7. Remove shifter
8. Remove damaged rubber shift boot
9. Feed small side of shifter, with the orange tow/haul connector and wire thru new rubber boot.
10. Re-insert the base of the shifter into it's original position
11. Feed the rubber boot down the channels of the base of the steering column cover.
12. Re-insert the torx screw and tighten
13. Re-install the top plastic cover of the steering column cover (snaps back into place)
14. Re-install the knee bolster; screws and clips.
I tried to cheat by warming the rubber shift boot, and sliding over the large end of the shifter...but that of course did not work...in fact it created a very small rip so I stopped and completed the steps I listed above.
Total time about 75 mins; had I had these instructions i would have gotten thru it in about 30 mins. So best of luck to those who follow.
All in all it's an easy project, just take your time. Hope this helps someone is a similar situation!