Shift Knob, with EMPI Logo, Fits 7, 10 & 12mm Thread, Brown

OVERVIEW

When you''re behind the wheel of a classic air-cooled Volkswagen, every touchpoint matters to the overall driving experience. The EMPI Brown Vinyl Shift Knob is more than just a simple gear selector; it''s a deliberate statement of vintage style and performance heritage. Featuring the iconic EMPI globe logo embossed directly into the top surface, this knob brings a touch of the legendary 1960s and 70s California custom scene straight to your palm. The rich, earthy brown vinyl covering provides a warm, classic aesthetic that perfectly complements tan, beige, or chocolate interior color schemes. It offers a sophisticated and period-correct alternative to the standard black plastic knobs found in most stock interiors, instantly elevating the cabin of any Type 1, Type 2, or custom kit car. Its ergonomic teardrop shape is meticulously designed for a comfortable grip, ensuring that every gear change feels positive, deliberate, and smooth, whether you''re cruising the coastline or navigating stop-and-go city traffic.

One of the most significant hurdles for VW enthusiasts is identifying the correct shifter shaft diameter, as Volkswagen changed thread sizes multiple times throughout the decades. This EMPI shift knob eliminates the guesswork entirely with a brilliant triple-threaded internal design that accommodates 7mm, 10mm, and 12mm threads. This extreme versatility means you don''t have to worry about measuring your shifter shaft with a micrometer before placing an order; it is engineered to work across the entire spectrum of air-cooled Volkswagens. From the early "peanut" style shifters of the 1950s to the later, thicker shafts found on Super Beetles and late-model Buses, this knob provides a snug, secure fit without the need for flimsy plastic adapters or rattling set screws that eventually vibrate loose. It is the ultimate "set it and forget it" interior upgrade for the discerning owner who values both form and function in their Beetle, Karmann Ghia, Type 3, or custom Dune Buggy.

FITMENT

• VW Beetle: All years and models, including Standard and Super Beetle (1946-1979)
• VW Bus / Type 2: All models including Split Window and Bay Window (1950-1979)
• VW Karmann Ghia: All years and models (1955-1974)
• VW Type 3: Squareback, Fastback, and Notchback models (1961-1973)
• VW Thing: Type 181 (1973-1975)
• Custom Applications: Dune Buggies, Sand Rails, Meyers Manx, and Trikes utilizing a standard VW-style threaded shifter

SPECS

• Manufacturer Part Number: 00-4542-0
• Material: High-grade, UV-resistant synthetic brown vinyl
• Logo: Embossed EMPI Globe Logo on the top crown
• Thread Compatibility: Triple-threaded for 7mm, 10mm, and 12mm shafts
• Color: Vintage Brown
• Grip Style: Textured vinyl for enhanced slip resistance
• Weight: 0.23 lbs, providing a lightweight and responsive shifting feel
• Installation: Direct screw-on replacement; no tools or adapters required

PRO TIPS

Tip 1: Confirming Your Orientation

When installing your new EMPI shift knob, always start by threading it on slowly by hand to ensure you don''t cross-thread the internal inserts. Because this is a triple-threaded design, it may feel different than a single-sized knob as it engages. Once you reach the bottom of the threads, you might find that the EMPI logo is not facing perfectly forward. To fix this without over-tightening and damaging the vinyl, you can place a small rubber O-ring or a tiny piece of thread-seal tape inside the knob. This creates a "crush zone" that allows you to snug the knob down firmly while keeping the logo perfectly aligned with your dashboard.

Tip 2: Maintenance and Preservation

The brown vinyl used on these knobs is durable, but it can be sensitive to the oils and salts from your hands over many years of driving. To keep the EMPI logo looking sharp and the brown color from darkening unevenly, we recommend cleaning the knob occasionally with a