Trigger Shifter, Copper Plated, Rosewood Knob, 13.5 Inch

OVERVIEW

Elevate your classic Volkswagen''s interior with the striking aesthetics and precision engineering of the EMPI Copper Plated Trigger Shifter. This isn''t just a gear selector; it''s a statement piece designed for the VW enthusiast who demands both vintage flair and modern reliability. The 13.5-inch height provides a comfortable, ergonomic reach that drastically improves the shifting experience compared to the stock "pudding stirrer" setup found in many aging air-cooled vehicles. The centerpiece of this shifter is its stunning copper-plated round shaft, which offers a warm, custom look that perfectly complements the rich, natural grain of the genuine rosewood shift knob. Whether you are building a high-end show car or a daily driver with personality, this shifter delivers a level of sophistication that is unmatched in the aftermarket world.

Beyond its visual appeal, the EMPI Trigger Shifter is built for performance and safety. It features a classic sliding trigger mechanism with the iconic EMPI logo cast directly into the metal, allowing for a positive and secure release of the reverse lock-out. This design ensures you never accidentally find reverse when reaching for second gear, providing peace of mind during spirited driving. The internal mechanics are engineered to provide a crisper, more definitive shift pattern, reducing the throw and eliminating the vague feel of original equipment. The copper plating is meticulously applied to resist corrosion and wear, while the rosewood knob is polished to a smooth finish that feels natural and substantial in the palm of your hand. Installation is straightforward, making it one of the most impactful upgrades you can perform on your Beetle, Karmann Ghia, or Thing.

FITMENT

This EMPI Trigger Shifter is designed for left-hand drive vehicles and fits the following air-cooled Volkswagen models:

• Volkswagen Type 1 Beetle (Standard): 1952 - 1977
• Volkswagen Type 1 Super Beetle: 1971 - 1979
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1956 - 1974
• Volkswagen Type 181 Thing: 1973 - 1974

SPECS

Every component of this shifter is manufactured to meet the rigorous standards of Appletree Automotive and EMPI performance parts.

• Overall Length: 13.5 Inches from base to top of knob.
• Shaft Finish: High-luster Copper Plating over durable steel.
• Knob Material: Genuine Rosewood with a smooth, ergonomic round profile.
• Reverse Lock-out Type: Trigger-style sliding mechanism with cast EMPI logo.
• Base Construction: Heavy-duty cast alloy for maximum rigidity.
• Shift Throw: Reduced throw design for faster, more precise gear changes.
• Includes: Shifter assembly, base plate, and necessary mounting hardware.
• Weight: Approximately 2.5 lbs for a solid, mechanical feel.

PRO TIPS

1. Perfecting the Base Plate Alignment

When installing your new EMPI Trigger Shifter, do not fully torque the two mounting bolts immediately. The secret to a smooth-shifting VW is the alignment of the shifter base plate relative to the shift rod. Start by loosely installing the bolts, then shift the car into second gear. Move the base plate until the shifter sits naturally without tension, then tighten the bolts. Always test all four forward gears and reverse before finishing the job to ensure the reverse lock-out trigger is functioning correctly and you aren''t "grinding" to find first gear.

2. Refresh Your Linkage Components

A high-performance shifter like this copper-plated beauty can only do so much if your internal linkage is worn out. Before you bolt this 13.5-inch shifter down, we highly recommend inspecting your shift rod bushing (located under the inspection plate behind the front beam) and your rear shift coupler (located under the rear seat inspection plate). If these rubber or plastic components are cracked or soft, your new shifter will still feel "mushy." Replacing these small parts at the same time as the shifter will result in a "bolt-action" feel that makes driving your VW a completely new experience.

3. Copper and Wood Maintenance

To keep the copper plating looking brilliant for years, avoid using harsh abrasive cleaners or chrome polishes which can be too aggressive for the copper finish. A simple wipe-down with a soft microfiber cloth and a mild wax is usually all that is needed to prevent oxidation. For the rosewood knob, a tiny drop of lemon oil or high-quality furniture oil once a year will prevent the wood from drying out or cracking due to UV exposure through your VW''s windows. Taking care of these materials ensures your interior remains the highlight of every car show.