Is that 3/4 total in any direction or 3/4 to the left, 3/4 to the right making an inch and a half total?
To remove the shifter, block the wheels, set the shifter in neutral and use a large pair of channel-lock pliers (also known as slip-joint pliers). Lay flat on top of metal retainer at bottom of shifter(top of transmission tower). Push down and turn to the left. Shifter should now pull straight up and out.
When re-installing, make sure the shifter goes in straight and use the pliers to push down and turn to the left.
Look at the end of the shifter that fits inside the trannsmission tower. See if it is worn excessively, it should be even on both sides. Look down into the top of the transmission and see if the slots for the shift-rails look excessively worn.

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If you only have 3/4 toatl play at the shift knob, that is passable. Does it shift o.k. ?

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