Shifter, Oem Straight Version, for Beetle 68-79

OVERVIEW

If your classic Volkswagen feels like you are stirring a bowl of oatmeal every time you try to find third gear, it is time to return to the crisp, mechanical precision of the original factory design. The EMPI OEM-style straight shifter is the definitive solution for air-cooled enthusiasts who want to maintain the period-correct aesthetic of their late-model Beetle while restoring the tactile feedback of a brand-new car. This assembly is a direct replacement for the often-abused factory units that suffer from decades of metal fatigue, worn-out reverse lockout springs, and stripped threads. By installing this robust, straight-lever version, you are not just fixing a part; you are reclaiming the driving experience that made the Volkswagen Beetle a legend of reliability and simplicity.

Crafted to meet or exceed original equipment specifications, this shifter assembly features the iconic straight shaft design that became standard in the late 1960s. It comes complete with a 10mm threaded top, allowing you to use your favorite stock knob or any number of custom aftermarket handles. The base plate and internal components are engineered to provide a smooth transition between gates, ensuring that the reverse lockout mechanism functions exactly as intended to prevent accidental downshifts. Whether you are performing a concours-level restoration or simply maintaining your daily driver, this EMPI shifter (OEM Number 113-798-121A) provides the structural integrity and fitment accuracy required to keep your VW on the road for another fifty years.

FITMENT

• Volkswagen Beetle (Standard): 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977
• Volkswagen Super Beetle: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979
• Volkswagen Karmann Ghia: 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974
• Note: Specifically designed for vehicles utilizing the straight-style lever configuration found in late-model air-cooled chassis.

SPECS

• Part Number: 98-7095-0
• OEM Reference Number: 113-798-121A
• Lever Style: Straight (Late Version)
• Thread Pitch: M10 x 1.5
• Material: High-strength steel construction
• Finish: Durable black powder-coated base with polished/chromed lever
• Components Included: Shifter lever, base housing, and reverse lockout plate
• Weight: Approximately 1.05 lbs

PRO TIPS

1. Inspect Your Shift Rod Bushing and Coupler

While installing a new shifter assembly will significantly improve your gear selection, it cannot compensate for a collapsed shift rod bushing or a perished rear coupler. Before bolting down your new EMPI unit, take a flashlight and look down into the tunnel. If the plastic bushing located just behind the shifter hole is cracked or missing, your shift rod will "vibrate" and "slop," making even a new shifter feel imprecise. Always replace the bushing and the rear shift coupler (located under the inspection plate beneath the rear seat) at the same time to achieve that "like-new" shifting sensation.

2. Master the Reverse Lockout Plate Alignment

The secret to a perfect install is the alignment of the stop plate (the ramped metal plate inside the base). When installing the two 13mm bolts, do not tighten them completely at first. Place the car in second gear, then move the shifter base until the lever sits vertically and has just enough clearance to enter the reverse gate only when pushed down firmly. If you find yourself accidentally hitting reverse when looking for second, the plate is too far to the left. Take the time to "fine-tune" this positioning before final torquing to ensure you don''t grind your gears during spirited driving.

3. Use High-Quality Lithium Grease

Metal-on-metal contact is the enemy of longevity in a VW shifter. Before assembly, apply a generous amount of high-quality white lithium grease or a synthetic moly-grease to the "ball" at the bottom of the shifter lever and the socket inside the shift rod. Additionally, lightly coat the reverse lockout ramps. This not only ensures a buttery-smooth throw but also prevents the "squeaking" noise often associated with dry aftermarket shifters. Proper lubrication at the time of install will prevent premature wear on the base plate and keep your shifts silent and effortless for years to come.