Gear Shifter Extension, for Shifters with 12mm Threaded Ends

OVERVIEW

Elevate your driving experience and improve the ergonomics of your classic air-cooled Volkswagen with the EMPI Stainless Steel Gear Shifter Extension. For many VW owners, the stock shifter position can feel a bit low, requiring a reach that takes your hand away from the steering wheel longer than necessary. This 4-inch extension is the professional solution for drivers looking to bring the shift knob into a more natural, comfortable position. Whether you are navigating tight city streets in a Beetle or cruising the coastline in a Type 2 Bus, this extension reduces driver fatigue and provides a more connected feel to your transaxle. The high-quality stainless steel construction ensures that it won''t just perform well, but it will also resist corrosion and maintain a brilliant shine that complements any interior restoration or custom build.

Engineering matters when it comes to your VW''s shift linkage, and EMPI has designed this extension with precision in mind. Featuring a standard 12mm x 1.5 thread pitch, it is a direct fit for most late-model air-cooled Volkswagens and a wide variety of aftermarket performance shifters. One of the standout features of this kit is the inclusion of two jam nuts. These are essential for ensuring that your shift knobespecially those with logos or T-handle gripsis perfectly clocked and tightened at the correct angle. You won''t have to worry about a loose knob or an upside-down shift pattern emblem. This extension is a simple, effective, and "bolt-on" performance upgrade that bridges the gap between vintage aesthetics and modern driving comfort.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle: 1968 through 1977 (Standard and Super Beetle)
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1968 through 1974
• Volkswagen Type 2 Bus / Transporter: 1968 through 1979
• Volkswagen Type 3 (Squareback, Fastback, Notchback): 1968 through 1973
• Volkswagen Thing (Type 181): 1973 through 1974
• Aftermarket Shifters: Fits most EMPI, Scat, and other performance shifters utilizing a 12mm x 1.5 threaded shaft

SPECS

• Material: High-Grade Polished Stainless Steel
• Total Length: 4 Inches (101.6mm)
• Thread Size: 12mm x 1.5 (Standard VW Late-Model Thread)
• Included Hardware: Two (2) Stainless Steel Jam Nuts for precision alignment
• Finish: Mirror Polished
• Part Number: 00-4533-0

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Mastering the Jam Nut Alignment. When installing your new extension, use the first jam nut to secure the extension onto your shifter rod. Then, use the second jam nut specifically to "time" your shift knob. This is crucial if you are using a T-handle or a knob with a shift pattern. Simply thread the nut onto the extension, thread the knob down until it hits the nut, and then back the knob off slightly until it is oriented correctly. Finally, tighten the jam nut up against the bottom of the knob to lock it in place permanently.

Tip 2: Check Your Dash Clearance. Before hitting the road, always do a "dry shift" through all gearsincluding reversewhile the vehicle is stationary. Because this extension adds 4 inches of height, the throw of the shifter will technically be longer at the knob end. Ensure that your hand or the knob itself doesn''t interfere with under-dash parcels shelves (bamboo trays), aftermarket gauge pods, or the dashboard itself, especially when shifting into 1st or 3rd gear.

Tip 3: Thread Maintenance. Before installing the extension, we highly recommend cleaning the threads on your existing shifter rod with a wire brush or a bit of brake cleaner. Over decades, old grease and debris can build up in the threads. Applying a tiny drop of blue (removable) thread locker or a light touch of anti-seize on the 12mm threads will ensure a smooth installation and prevent any vibration-induced loosening during high-RPM driving sessions.