Picked up a custom shift knob

[2000xp8]

Spendy knob.

On the search for something non-Ford so keeping my options open. Problem is I can't get the darn shift boot to lay right with the MGW shifter handle. I feel i need to solve this first because if i drop $200 on a knob and the boot doesn't fit properly it will drive me nuts.

I'm trying to find one of the older MGW 1-peice shift handles. The 2-peice new units sit oddly.

Mine isn't exactly the pinnacle of perfection either.

The lower boot and front of the shifter is tight to the front of the shifter bezel. I made some clearance on my old bezel, but i'd like to not to this time.

I just purchased new bezel to console clips and boot to bezel clips. Hopefully can get it to stay in place during shifts.
For the longest time i just let the leather boot sit don't under the console. Never really bothered me until i bought this shift knob.
So you are right to be concerned about it, because now i'm.