My interior is ok except 2 things: The carpet is awful, and the center console was filthy.
If I just replace these 2 things, I think the interior will be much more presentable....

To start, I found a mint used replacement center console on Ebay from this seller:
http://www.ebay.com/sch/m.html?_nkw=...lljeepparts401

Console R&R is actually pretty easy, even for a n00b like myself.
1) Remove 2 screws inside the storage compartment.
2) Using door trim/flathead, pop off both shifter bezels, and pop off both bulbs sockets.
3) Remove the screw from under each bezel.
4) Remove auto shifter handle. You do not need to press the button on the gear selector in order to remove it. You can twist if you need to. Just straddle the console, and pull towards you. Careful that you don't punch yourself in the face.
5) Put 4WD selector handle to N or 4WD to give clearance.
6) Make sure you pull the E-brake ALL the way up. I did not at first, and the console was getting stuck.
7) Remove and replace console. Tilt the back of the console up to roof to get clearance from the 2 shifter handles.

Here are some other points:
I detached the storage compartment part of the console and ran it through the dishwasher. Like new.
I removed the 2 shifter bezels and scrubbed them with soap and water in the sink. Like new.
I used anti-seize on the shifter handle before replacing it, since I will need to remove it again when I replace the carpet.











I kept the compartment lid (which was in good shape) before tossing the old console in the trash.
If anyone wants it, it's yours if you pay shipping.

 

I'm trying to remove the Console off my 1988 Cherokee, but I can't get the E-brake handle pulled up high enough to allow the Console's Center Panel to slide off of it. Any suggestions?

Thanks!

 

Go under the center of the jeep and back off the tension adjustment nuts below the parking brake lever until the handle can be lifted high enough. You might need two wrenches, both the same size. 11mm is my guess, maybe larger.

 

Shew, that was close. I thought BimmerJeeper was back.

Also, agree with Bmoney, adjust the ebrake cable from underneath to get enough movement in the ebrake handle.