or is the shifter mounted ot the console and not to the tunnel or tranny ? IE could i remove console and still have operating shifter?

Yes. Console does NOT support the shifter, transmission tail housing does.

Make sure the rubber boot around the shifter stick that is attached to the floorboard is good though or else you'll be breathing in whatever is under the car (smoke, exhaust, etc.)

Good luck,
Poncho

coolness, yeah the boot is screwed to floor (i just went out ansd removed the shifter plate) and is in perfect shape, means i can remove and sell console and still move car around under its own power

thanks