The Variable Assist Controller
is a black plastic box and it mounts in the left side of the rack. Is it possible that 97 was the only year that the amp was stowed in the console?
Warrior, I too had an awful time trying to get my rack out. Try looking on the far left hand, outside. There, you should see a round knob of sorts. if you pull it out, it'll release that side of the rack so that it'll hinge down on the opposite end. The right side is bolted to the rear deck and has 2 nuts on the topside. The easiest way to get to them, believe it or not, is to pull out the back seat, and remove the rear deck cover.