Nissan Repair: 01 Xterra excessive heat, air leaks, excessive heat

Question
I can't believe the amount of information you put out. Kudos!!
There is excessive heat coming up from under my car in the stick shift area. Someone told me it might be a crack in my transmission boot. It actually makes my water hot in the drink holder. Any ideas?

Answer
Libby,

Yes, one of the boots could be cracked or improperly installed.  Remove the console and check for air leaks.  Also, while the console is removed get some insulation and put it on the tunnel making sure not to interfere with movement of the shifter or linkages.  It makes things much cooler.  I bought some at Home Depot.  The aluminum bubble insulation (small bubbles) and cut it to fit in every space I could.  And, that includes under the carpet on both sides.  Makes a big difference.