Quick Shift Kit, Fits All Shifters, Aluminum Version

OVERVIEW

Transform your driving experience by eliminating the long, sloppy throws characteristic of vintage Volkswagen gearboxes. The EMPI Quick Shift Kit is the ultimate "bang-for-your-buck" upgrade for any air-cooled enthusiast looking to sharpen their shifting precision without the high cost or "custom" look of a complete aftermarket performance shifter. By raising the pivot point of your factory shift lever, this kit effectively reduces the distance your hand travels between gears by up to 40 percent. This creates a much more modern, "snappy" feel that allows for quicker gear changes and a significantly more connected relationship between the driver and the machine, whether you''re cruising the coastline or navigating tight city streets. You will immediately notice the difference in the mechanical feedback, turning that "rowing a boat" sensation into a tight, crisp movement.

Crafted from high-quality cast aluminum, this kit is designed for longevity and simple installation. Unlike plastic alternatives that can flex or wear down over time, the aluminum construction provides a solid foundation that maintains its structural integrity even under spirited driving conditions. The kit includes the necessary spacer plate and extended mounting hardware, making it a true bolt-on modification that can be completed in your garage in under twenty minutes with basic hand tools. It is the perfect solution for owners of classic Beetles and Ghias who want to maintain the original, stock look of their interior and shift handle while enjoying the functional benefits of a performance-oriented short-throw setup. It''s an essential modification for any daily driver or weekend warrior looking to improve the ergonomics of their VW.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1946-1977 (Standard models with manual transmission)
• Volkswagen Type 1 Super Beetle: 1971-1979 (Manual transmission only)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956-1974 (Manual transmission only)
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: 1973-1974
• Note: Fits factory original shifters ONLY.
• Note: Does NOT fit Autostick models.

SPECS

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-4500-0
• Material: High-Grade Cast Aluminum
• Throw Reduction: Approximately 40% over stock
• Hardware Included: Two (2) extended length mounting bolts
• Finish: Natural Aluminum
• Compatibility: Designed for 12mm diameter stock shift levers

PRO TIPS

1. Mastering the Reverse Lockout Alignment

When installing the aluminum spacer and re-mounting your shifter, don''t tighten the bolts all the way down immediately. You need to ensure the reverse lockout plate is aligned correctly to prevent "gear hunting." A common technique is to place the car in second gear, then adjust the shifter base so it sits vertically, and then tighten the bolts. If you find yourself accidentally hitting reverse when aiming for second gear, or if you can''t engage reverse at all, loosen the bolts slightly and slide the base plate 1-2 millimeters to the left or right until the gate alignment is perfect.

2. Inspect Your Bushings While You Are In There

A quick shift kit is designed to reduce throw, but it cannot fix "slop" caused by worn-out components elsewhere in the linkage. Before you bolt everything back together, take a flashlight and look into the tunnel to inspect your shift rod bushing. If it is cracked, missing, or crumbling, your shifting will still feel vague. Additionally, check the rear shift coupler under the inspection plate beneath the rear seat. Replacing these low-cost rubber or urethane components alongside the EMPI kit will result in a "like-new" shifting experience that feels incredibly tight and mechanical.

3. Lube is Life for Smooth Shifting

Don''t forget to apply a generous amount of high-quality lithium or molybdenum grease to the shift ball at the bottom of the lever and the socket inside the shift rod before final assembly. Because the quick shift kit changes the geometry and leverage of the shifter, any friction in the pivot point will be more noticeable at the handle. Proper lubrication ensures that your gear changes are not only shorter but also smoother and more effortless. Also, ensure the spring inside the shifter housing is seated correctly against the plate to maintain the proper tension for the reverse lockout mechanism.