Tips on Replacing Hand Brake on 308

[tifosi]

Greetings. I am looking at repairing the hand brake lever on my 308. About 2/3 down the handle, the white metal is bent and partway split. I am hoping that bracing the crack area by sandwiching/bolting a couple of pieces the 1/8 inch stainless flat stock I will be able to brace the lever enough. It seems the previous owner used to pull the lever up and then towards himself and the lever isn't designed to work this way.

If I am unable to repair the handle while it is in the car I will then have to remove the console to disconnect the lever and take it out to fix it.

My questions is this. How difficult is it to remove the console on the 308. Is there anything I should be looking at once I am inside? The leather on the console is in exceptional shape and I am trying to minimize disturbing anything. I am fairly handy with the tools so I am not too worried about the repairs.

Thanks in advance for your assistance.

Cheers-Colin