do i have to remove the whole center console to get at the bolt under the shift lever
 

i need to tighten the bolt for the shift lever in my truck do i need to remove the whole console to get at it?

No, Just use a small screwdriver, or nail file, to pop off the insert on top of the shifter. Inside of it, you will clearly see the nut that needs to be tightened. If your shifter is "loose" then more than likely the nut will have completely unscrewed itself and you'll need a pair of tweezers to fish it out so you can reset it. Use a pair of needle nose pliers to tighten it.