Shift Knob, AutoHaus Logo

OVERVIEW

Elevate the interior aesthetic and tactile response of your classic Volkswagen with the EMPI Black Powder Coated Billet Aluminum Shift Knob featuring the iconic AutoHaus logo. For many air-cooled enthusiasts, the stock plastic shift knob leaves much to be desired in terms of weight and durability. This premium EMPI upgrade replaces that flimsy factory feel with the substantial, confidence-inspiring weight of CNC-machined billet aluminum. The sleek black powder-coated finish provides a modern, stealthy look that integrates seamlessly into a variety of interior styles, from period-correct restorations to aggressive resto-mod builds. The centerpiece of this knob is the high-quality enamel AutoHaus emblem, crafted from a durable zinc alloy and secured with genuine 3M adhesive, ensuring your vintage VW heritage is displayed with pride every time you reach for a gear.

Engineering versatility is at the heart of this EMPI component, making it one of the most adaptable interior upgrades on the market. Recognizing that Volkswagen changed shifter thread pitches multiple times throughout the decades, EMPI has bundled this knob with four distinct thread inserts. Whether you are rowing through the gears of a split-window Beetle, a late-model Super Beetle, or a rugged Type 2 Bus, this kit provides the precise fitment needed to eliminate shifter rattle and ensure a rock-solid connection to your transmission. Beyond stock applications, this knob is specifically designed to fit the world-famous EMPI Trigger Shifter, making it the perfect finishing touch for your high-performance shift linkage. Don''t settle for a worn-out or generic handle when you can install a piece of hardware that matches the legendary soul of your air-cooled machine.

FITMENT

This shift knob is designed for universal air-cooled VW application using the included adapter kit. It fits the following models and year ranges:

• VW Beetle (Bug): 1949-1960 (10mm), 1961-1967 (7mm), 1968-1979 (12mm)
• VW Karmann Ghia: 1959-1960 (10mm), 1961-1967 (7mm), 1968-1974 (12mm)
• VW Bus (Type 2 / Transporter): 1950-1967 (10mm), 1968-1979 (12mm)
• VW Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1961-1973 (12mm)
• VW Thing (Type 181): 1973-1974 (12mm)
• Aftermarket: Fits all EMPI Trigger Shifters (3/8-24 thread pitch)

SPECS

• Material: CNC-Machined Billet Aluminum
• Finish: Durable Black Powder Coat
• Emblem Material: Zinc Alloy with Enamel Inlay
• Emblem Attachment: High-Strength 3M Adhesive Backing
• Thread Insert 1: 7mm (For 1961-1967 Bug/Ghia)
• Thread Insert 2: 10mm (For Early Bug/Bus/Ghia)
• Thread Insert 3: 12mm (For Late Model Bug/Bus/Ghia/Type 3/Thing)
• Thread Insert 4: 3/8-24 (For EMPI Trigger Shifters)
• Part Number: 00-4685-0

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Precise Emblem Alignment

The most common mistake when installing these knobs is sticking the AutoHaus emblem on before the knob is fully tightened. Because the thread engagement determines where the knob stops spinning, you should always thread the knob onto your shifter handle and tighten it completely first. Once the knob is locked in its final position, clean the recessed top surface with a bit of isopropyl alcohol to remove any oils, then carefully peel the 3M backing and press the emblem into place so it is perfectly centered and upright from your seating position.

Tip 2: Use a Drop of Blue Threadlocker

Air-cooled Volkswagens are notorious for vibrations that can slowly loosen interior hardware over time. To ensure your shift knob remains rock-solid during spirited driving, we recommend applying a single drop of medium-strength (blue) threadlocker to the shifter threads before installing the appropriate brass insert. This provides enough grip to prevent the knob from spinning loose during a fast 2nd-to-3rd shift, but still allows for easy removal with hand tools if you ever need to service your shifter housing.

Tip 3: Temperature Management

Since this knob is constructed from solid billet aluminum, it can become quite sensitive to extreme temperatures. In the peak of summer, aluminum can soak up heat if the car is parked in direct sunlight; conversely, it can feel very cold in the winter. To protect the powder-coated finish and your hand, many veteran VW owners keep a small cloth "shifter sock" or even a vintage driving glove in the glovebox for those extreme weather days. This simple habit preserves the deep black finish of the powder coat and prevents the enamel on the AutoHaus logo from experiencing unnecessary thermal expansion stress.