Super Shifter Assembly, Includes Linkage Rods

Take Control of Your Drivetrain with the EMPI Super Shifter Assembly

When it comes to building a high-performance sand rail, dune buggy, or custom air-cooled project, the interface between the driver and the transmission is one of the most critical components for a successful build. The EMPI Super Shifter Assembly is engineered to replace the vague, sloppy feel of a stock linkage with a crisp, short-throw action that provides positive gear engagement every single time. This isn''t just an aesthetic upgrade; it is a mechanical overhaul designed for the rigors of off-road racing and spirited street driving. By reducing the throw distance and utilizing a heavy-duty universal joint system, this shifter allows you to find your gears with confidence, eliminating the "guessing game" often associated with aged Volkswagen shifting components. Whether you are launching off a dune or navigating tight trails, the tactile feedback provided by this assembly ensures you stay in the power band without the risk of a missed shift.

This comprehensive kit is the ultimate solution for builders who are constructing a custom chassis where a standard Beetle shift rod simply won''t reach or fit. The inclusion of a 36-inch linkage rod provides the versatility needed to mount your shifter in the most ergonomic position possible, regardless of your seat placement or frame dimensions. Finished in a high-luster, show-quality triple-chrome plating, the Super Shifter doesn''t just perform at the highest levelit looks the part too. The kit comes complete with all the necessary hardware, including the shifter handle, linkage rod, couplers, dowel pins, and a high-strength U-joint to bridge the gap between your hand and the transaxle. At Appletree Automotive, we know that reliability is paramount when you''re miles away from the nearest pavement, and this EMPI assembly is built to withstand the torque and vibration inherent in high-performance air-cooled applications.

Vehicle Fitment and Application

The EMPI Super Shifter Assembly is designed primarily for custom-built air-cooled Volkswagen applications and is not a direct "bolt-in" replacement for stock Beetle floor pans without modification. It is the industry standard for the following:

• Sand Rails & Dune Buggies: Ideal for all tube-chassis frames including Berrien, Chenowth, and custom long-travel rails.
• Manx-Style Buggies: Perfect for fiberglass bodies where a custom shifter location is required for comfort.
• Baja Bugs: Suitable for highly modified Bajas that have moved away from the stock center tunnel linkage.
• VW-Powered Trikes: Provides the necessary length and linkage flexibility for custom three-wheel builds.
• Custom VW Projects: Any application utilizing a Type 1 (Beetle style) or Type 2 (Bus style) manual transaxle in a non-stock configuration.

Technical Specifications and Kit Contents

Every component in the JS3A kit is manufactured to strict tolerances to ensure a smooth, bind-free shifting experience. Here are the technical details:

• Part Number: JS3A (EMPI 16-2106-0).
• Linkage Rod Length: 36 Inches (Can be cut to size for custom applications).
• Material: High-tensile steel construction for maximum rigidity.
• Finish: Mirror-polished Chrome for corrosion resistance and show-winning looks.
• Shifter Style: Short-throw performance handle with ergonomic grip.
• Linkage Type: U-joint and coupler system for precise movement transfer.
• Included Hardware: 36" Rod, Shifter Assembly, U-Joint, Couplers, and Dowel Pins.
• Weight: Approximately 8.42 lbs.

Pro Tips from the Appletree Specialist

Tip 1: Measure Twice, Cut Once for the Perfect Fit

The 36-inch linkage rod is designed to be universal, which means most builders will need to shorten it to fit their specific chassis. Before cutting, mock up your seat and shifter position to ensure the reach is comfortable. When you determine the length, use a pipe cutter or a fine-tooth hacksaw for a clean square cut. Always deburr the inner and outer edges of the rod after cutting; this ensures the couplers slide on smoothly and prevents metal shavings from entering the U-joint or binding the mechanism. Double-check your measurements with the couplers in place before making the final cut, as you can''t add metal back once it''s gone!

Tip 2: Optimize Your Linkage Geometry

To achieve the smoothest shifting possible, you want your linkage rod to be as straight as possible from the shifter base to the transmission. While the included U-joint allows for some angularity, excessive angles can lead to "notchy" shifting or premature wear on the joint. Try to align the shifter and the transmission nose cone so that the rod operates on a direct plane. If your chassis requires a steep angle, ensure the U-joint is properly phased and that the dowel pins are seated tightly. A small amount of blue thread locker on the mounting bolts for the shifter base is also highly recommended to prevent vibration from loosening the assembly during high-RPM runs.

Tip 3: Lubrication and Maintenance for Longevity

Even though this kit features high-quality chrome plating, the moving mechanical parts require proper lubrication to stay "super." During installation, apply a generous amount of high-quality synthetic grease or lithium grease to the internal pivot ball of the shifter and the needle bearings (or pivot points) of the U-joint. This significantly reduces friction and provides that "bolt-action" feel. For those driving in sandy or dusty environments, we recommend cleaning and re-greasing the linkage periodically. Avoiding "dry" operation will prevent the dowel pins from egging out the holes in the couplers, ensuring your shift pattern remains tight and precise for years to come.