Help!

I picked up the parts kit to attempt to repair the transfer case linkage on my '99 Cherokee Sport, per TSB 21-09-98 -- but I've run into two problems that I can't figure out on my own. For a bit of context, the Jeep is my first, and I've had it for about 3 weeks; I am learning as I go, but have little previous experience with working on automobiles.

I removed the center console and pulled the driver's side carpet back this past weekend, and was attempting to remove the long bolts that run from the left side of the transmission hump through to the transfer case body, as I believed I needed to remove that bracket in order to get at the transfer case shifter to replace the bushings and rubber boot (per the TSB). Unfortunately, either I or the PO (I believe it's the latter in this case -- I've screwed a few things up, but this was in rough shape to start) stripped 2 of them.

Two questions:

1. Both stripped bolts still go through the body and into the bracket bushing, but won't do more than spin uselessly. The rubber bushing itself on one is partially missing (split in half, only half still on the Jeep). Am I lining myself up for major problems by waiting? Not currently wheeling the Jeep, and there's no significant (or noticeable, even) play in the bracket.

2. Do I really need to remove the bracket to get at the shifter? I can see where the replacement parts are supposed to go, but I'm stumped in terms of actually getting the shaft out so that I can put the new pieces in place.

If it helps, cell-phone pictures of what I'm looking at here: http://ellf.smugmug.com/Other/Jeep/19109736_6nhjMc#1487559028_BzdCrfN

 

(Added some clarity/details to the question; I've cross-posted it to JF, which I hope is acceptable.)