i can't seem to get my shifter off from the rod it's connected to. does it get pulled down or pushed up? thanks.

 

down.

you know u gotta unscrew several bolts from the bottom of the car, right?

 

You need to jack up your car and support on its jackstands. You wil require a socket wrench and a wrench (10mm or 12mm can't remember exact, but its one of those two).

Remove the bolts and take the shifter bolt out and your shifter is free.