I don't have a rubber mallet and I cannot get the ball on. Any help? I know there are a million threads on this, so please don't bust my balls.

use anything softer than the threads and shaft of the shifter that you won't mind destroying a bit of in the process... old telephone book, 2x4, log... then hit with a hammer.

i use my palm :)
just screw on the shift knob. align it up straight with the socket and pop the ball right into place. works every time.
make sure you eat your wheaties beforehand tho

Tom

The secret is in the alignment and losing your temper just enough to forego formalities and slap the b**** hard.

I never got the palm method to work, but it sure did hurt...

Just find anything firm and somewhat soft, like a block of wood. Then find something heavy/hard and place the block of wood on top of the shifter. Proceed to smack into place...

I personally used a block of soft wood and a large rock. No marks or damage to the shifter, and only took a light tap.

I used a lot of bubble wrap and a cinder block.

Phone books are a GREAT addition to any shop....under the oil pan for jacking the motor.....shifters......alignments........finding obscure parts....lots of good uses....;)