Anyone with a '53 (or possibly a '52) might be interested to know a source for the automatic transmission column shift boot (the rubber boot at the base of the shift lever). The supplier lists it for a '52 but it looked correct for my '53 so I took a chance and ordered it. It arrived today and fits my '53 perfectly. My original one had become dry and had split nearly in two. I installed it by unscrewing the plastic end **** on the shift lever and lubricating the internal ridge of the new boot with a dab of liquid dish soap spread evenly over the rubber - a little fudging to get it around the lip on the column and it locked into place nice and neat.

Anyway here is a link to the part and supplier: http://www.profitautointeriors.com/p...5/RP-33-F.html