well i replaced my stock shifter knob today with Black Nismo one.
was a little concerned after reading this thread, and yes i did run into similiar issues.
the stock one just wouldnt turn, so i tried to the duct tape trick.
It worked , but was still very difficult to turn, the leather wrap on stock one started to come off, but managed to save it minus the leather on both sides, leather piece down the middle survived and actually looks ok
new one on and very happy now, love the feel when shifting
(apologies for picture quality, Blackberry camera)