How to Upgrade Your Gear Shifter Knob
Whether you are going full attack through a set of twisties or in brain-off commuter mode, shifting is an absolutely central part of driving. Upgrading your shift knob might seem like a minor modification, but it can really improve your overall drive experience and give your car’s interior some personalization.
Size
When it comes to upgrading the appearance and feel of your shift knob, you can choose from a wide range of shapes, sizes and styles. The size of your shift knob is important because you want it to be comfortable to hold and easy to grip. You also want the new shift knob to fit your vehicle’s gearstick and shifter handle.
JEGS offers a large selection of cool shift knobs in many different shapes and designs. Some of these are weighted to add extra heft, making them easier to shift, while others have a unique design or pattern that will add style and character to your interior. We even have a few models that are designed to allow you to access reverse.
There are also several different attachment methods available for your shift knob, including thread/screw-on and push-in models. You should check your vehicle’s manual for the specific threading of the shifter handle before choosing a replacement knob.
If your vehicle has English threading, you can find the correct shift knob size by counting the number of ridges in one inch of the threaded area. Metric thread sizes are a little more complicated but can be determined by using a caliper or ruler to measure how far the shift knob will advance in one gear shifter knob complete turn. Then, simply compare this measurement to the thread size listed on the knob you’re considering buying to make sure it’s a good fit for your vehicle.
Shape
The shape of a shift knob is important to consider because different shapes can be used to achieve specific goals. Some of these goals include providing a more comfortable grip, increasing shifting performance, or matching the aesthetic of the interior. Many manufacturers offer shift knobs in several different shapes and styles, making it easy to find a model that fits the driver’s needs.
The best way to determine which shape is right for you is to try a few out and see what feels comfortable in your hand. Some of the most popular shift knob shapes include low-profile sphere Slammer and Contour models, cylindrical-shaped Ashiko, and the unusual Prolix that uses peaked tangent contours. A less-common shape is the Raceseng Mass series, which uses a Delrin (plastic) outer layer with a solid stainless steel metal core. This design reduces temperature problems and provides the benefits of a weighted shift knob.
For a sleek and stylish option, check out the Mishimoto Carbon Fiber shift knob. This unit is a relatively lightweight shift knob that features hand-laid and resin infused carbon fiber for a beautiful appearance. Its ergonomic design delivers long lasting air freshener a comfortable feel and comes with a threaded adapter for use with standard transmission vehicles. It also includes a mini screw that bites into the adapter on three sides, tightly securing the knob onto your shift lever.
Weight
A weighted shift knob is a performance-driven aftermarket modification that sits atop an aftermarket short shifter or OEM manual shift stick. The goal is to make the shift stick top-heavy, allowing you to increase throw momentum and shift gears faster. Most models also have additional features and functions, such as a switch for activating sport modes or disengaging overdrive.
One of the most common questions about weighted shift knobs is whether they damage the transmission. This myth stems from the fact that a weighted shift knob increases the amount of force you must apply to shift the car into gear, which can cause your hands to fatigue more quickly and possibly overexert your transmission. However, this is a myth that can easily be dispelled by simple physics. A weighted shift knob only adds a small amount of force to the overall shift stroke, and the added mass simply makes the shift lever feel more substantial and dependable.
Many drivers choose to replace their stock shift knob with a heavier one to reduce the amount of effort it takes to shift between gears. The key is to find a weighted shift knob that fits well and looks good in your vehicle. A great way to do this is by choosing a billet shift knob with a sleek titanium finish. These are both lightweight and stylish, and they won’t heat up as quickly as a metal knob. Another option is a hybrid shift knob, like the Raceseng Hybrid series. These have a Delrin outer cover and a solid stainless steel metal core, so they won’t get hot or cold as quickly as a metal knob.
Material
The material of your shift knob is an important factor in durability and how comfortable it will be to hold. Many manufacturers offer several different shift knob materials, including plastic, aluminum, and leather. Some are also available in different finishes, such as satin, natural, and polished. Some are more resistant to abrasion than others, and some can be molded for a more comfortable grip. The type of material used will also determine how much heat the shift knob absorbs and whether it can withstand extreme temperatures.
There are a variety of shift knob styles, so finding the right one for your vehicle can be difficult. For instance, you may want to choose a shift knob that matches the theme of your car’s interior. DC Sports, for example, offers a number of options that match popular JDM themes. Their best-selling product is the Dewhel Universal JDM, which is available in both 70mm and 90mm lengths.
Another option is a weighted shift knob, which is designed to add more momentum and speed to the shifting process. These aftermarket modifications are often purchased for racing cars, but they can be added to any manual-transmission car. They sit atop the short shifter or OEM manual shift stick and are typically made from metal, carbon fiber, or aluminum. Some are also available in a variety of colors to match or contrast your car’s interior.
