you asked for ups and downs...unfortunatly with something stupid like this you only really have downs..be prepared to see your car on the back of a tow truck if/when you get caught.
plumber thread tape..you wrap it around the tip of the gear stick then put the gear knob on..basically tightens it up and secures it right...but once your screw the knob on..dont turn it back or else you'll have to pull the tape off and do it again.