any help on this would be great

what im trying to do, is there a way to remove the metal ring and boot, from the grey plastic bottom without damaging it? I dont really wanan hack it up, if I can get away with it

The ring slides up from the plastic part. There are some small tabs underneath that you have to push in. I used a flat blade screwdriver. It does take some force because it is a tight fit. From memory there are 4-5 tab's but once you get a couple unclipped it comes out easy. If your still struggling I can take some pictures tomorrow.

The top metal ring should just come off as well. Yet again probably needs reasonable force, mine was replaced recently with a new gearknob and that included the metal flare that sits atop the leather boot.

thanks for the reply guys, that's what I figured, but I didn't wanna go snapping the bottom if they are just there for looks. much apprecaited