Trigger Shifter Boot, Sold Each

OVERVIEW

The EMPI Trigger Shifter has long been a staple in the air-cooled community, offering a short-throw, positive-engagement shifting experience that the stock VW stick simply cannot match. However, even the most robust performance upgrades are subject to the wear and tear of time and the elements. This replacement Trigger Shifter Boot is designed specifically to restore the factory-fresh look and functionality of your EMPI shifter assembly. Over years of spirited driving, the original rubber can become brittle, cracking under the stress of constant movement or falling victim to the harsh UV rays that bake your interior. By replacing a weathered boot, you are not just improving the aesthetics of your cockpit; you are ensuring that the internal pivot points and trigger mechanism remain free from the dust, grit, and debris that can lead to premature wear and a ''crunchy'' shifting feel.

Crafted from high-grade, oil-resistant rubber, this accordion-style boot provides the perfect balance of flexibility and durability. It is engineered to stretch and contract effortlessly with every gear change, maintaining a tight seal against the shifter base and the handle shaft. Whether you are running a classic Beetle, a rugged Dune Buggy, or a vintage Type 2 Bus, maintaining the integrity of your shifter''s protective barrier is crucial for long-term reliability. This is a genuine EMPI replacement part, meaning you won''t have to struggle with ''universal'' fitments that never quite sit right or look out of place. It is the small details like a clean, intact shifter boot that separate a well-maintained machine from a project car, giving your interior that finished, professional appearance every Volkswagen enthusiast strives for.

FITMENT

This replacement boot is designed specifically for the EMPI Trigger Shifter (P/N 4450) and fits the following air-cooled Volkswagen models equipped with that shifter:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle: 1950 through 1979 (Standard and Super Beetle)
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter: 1950 through 1979
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1962 through 1973
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 through 1974
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: 1973 through 1974
• Custom Applications: Ideal for Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, and Manx-style kit cars utilizing the EMPI Trigger Shifter assembly.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Brand: EMPI
• Part Number: 00-4450-5
• Material: Heavy-duty, flexible black rubber
• Design: Multi-ribbed accordion style for maximum range of motion
• Compatibility: Designed exclusively for EMPI Trigger Style Shifters
• Finish: Matte black industrial finish
• Unit of Sale: Sold Each
• Chemical Resistance: Resistant to common automotive oils and grease

PRO TIPS FROM THE SHOP

1. Use Silicone Spray for a Stress-Free Install

When sliding the new boot over the shifter handle, the rubber can sometimes be stubborn or "grip" the metal shaft too tightly, leading to potential tearing. We recommend spraying a light mist of silicone lubricant or using a small amount of dish soap on the inside of the boot and the shifter handle. This allows the boot to slide into position effortlessly without overstretching the material. Once the lubricant dries, the boot will stay firmly in place.

2. Inspect Your Shifter Bushings While the Boot is Off

Since you already have the shifter boot removed, this is the perfect time to perform a "health check" on your shifting mechanism. Take a moment to look down into the shifter base. Check the condition of your shift rod bushing (the "hanger" bushing) and the shift coupler at the rear of the tunnel. If your shifter feels sloppy or has too much side-to-side play, replacing those inexpensive plastic bushings while you have the cockpit disassembled will make your VW feel like a brand-new car.

3. Prevent Future Cracking with UV Protectant

Rubber components in air-cooled Volkswagens are notorious for "dry rotting" due to heat and sun exposure. To significantly extend the life of your new EMPI boot, apply a high-quality, non-greasy UV protectant (like 303 Aerospace Protectant) once every few months. Avoid using solvent-based dressings that can actually break down the rubber over time. A little bit of protection goes a long way in keeping the rubber supple and preventing the cracks that lead to dirt infiltration.