Hurst 3 Speed Shifter

Are you looking to upgrade the shifting in your classic muscle car or hot rod? Then the Hurst 3 Speed Shifter should be at the top of your list. Known for their iconic design and smooth, precise shifting, Hurst shifters have been a go-to upgrade in the hot rodding community for decades.

In this comprehensive buying guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know before purchasing a Hurst 3 speed shifter, from product features to installation and beyond. We’ll help you select the right model for your vehicle and budget. By the end, you’ll be fully prepared to upgrade your ride with one of the most trusted names in shifters.

Overview of the Hurst 3 Speed Shifter

The Hurst 3 speed shifter is designed specifically for 3 speed manual transmissions. It replaces your stock shifter with a premium shifter made from strong, lightweight materials like aluminum and steel.

The shifter features a unique dual-rod design that dramatically improves shifting feel. The rods connect directly to the transmission, reducing slop and vagueness compared to stock shifters. This gives you smooth, precise shifts every time.

Several factors set Hurst 3 speed shifters apart:

• All-metal construction – Made from aluminum, steel, and stainless steel for durability.
• Low-profile design – Sleek look improves aesthetics of your interior.
• Multiple pivot points – Ensures smooth shifts without binding.
• Positive detents – Clicks securely into each gear without guessing.
• Customizable shifter knobs – Choose from various Hurst knobs to match your style.
• Made in the USA – Proudly engineered and manufactured in Indiana.

With its bulletproof design and buttery smooth shifting, the Hurst 3 speed shifter is a smart upgrade for classic cars and hot rods.

Key Features of the Hurst 3 Speed Shifter

Hurst 3 speed shifters come loaded with features designed for optimal shifting performance. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Dual-rod shifter linkage – The twin stainless steel shifter rods connect directly to the transmission for the most precise shifting possible. This unique design transmits your shifts smoothly without slop or vagueness.
• Positive no-miss shifts – The shifter slides effortlessly into each gear thanks to the detented shift lever and transmission bracket. You’ll never miss a gear with the Hurst shifter.
• Neutral safety switch – This important safety feature prevents the vehicle from starting unless the transmission is in neutral. It ensures you don’t accidentally start the car in gear.
• Aluminum stick shift base – The slick aluminum base looks great while firmly holding the shifter in place. Stainless steel mounting brackets add further stability.
• Quick, easy installation – Hurst includes all necessary hardware and instructions to install the shifter in just a few hours with basic tools. No drilling or fabrication needed.
• Custom shifter knobs – Choose from cool Hurst shifter knobs like the iconic pistol grip or black cue ball designs. You can easily customize the look of your shifter.

With its premium construction and performance, the Hurst 3 speed shifter is packed with must-have features to maximize your driving experience.

Installing the Hurst 3 Speed Shifter

One of the best aspects of the Hurst shifter is the straightforward installation process. While you can pay a shop for installation, most gearheads prefer to handle it themselves in just a few hours.

Here is an overview of the installation process:

• Step 1 – Disconnect the negative battery cable and remove the stock shifter and linkage. The Hurst shifter replaces these components.
• Step 2 – Bolt the sturdy transmission bracket onto the transmission using the provided hardware. This securely holds the lower shifter rod.
• Step 3 – Attach the upper shifter rod to the transmission bracket using a large E-clip. Make sure the rod moves freely.
• Step 4 – Mount the slick aluminum shifter base to the floor of the vehicle using the supplied bolts. Place it close to the stock shifter location.
• Step 5 – Insert the shifter assembly into the base and tighten the lock ring underneath to hold it in place.
• Step 6 – Adjust the linkage rods as needed until the shifter moves smoothly between gears without binding.
• Step 7 – Install your chosen Hurst shift knob to complete the installation!

With the included instructions, the Hurst 3 speed shifter can be installed in just about any classic rear-wheel drive vehicle. The transmission bracket may differ between transmission models. Take your time and double check each step to ensure optimal performance.

Vehicle Compatibility

A major benefit of the Hurst shifter is its broad compatibility with older American muscle cars and hot rods. The 3 speed models work with most popular 3 speed manual transmissions.

Here are some of the most common vehicle applications:

• Chevrolet – Camaro, Chevelle, Corvette, Impala, Nova, Bel Air, Biscayne
• Ford – Mustang, Falcon, Galaxie, Torino, Ranchero, Fairlane
• Pontiac – Firebird, GTO, Tempest, Catalina, Bonneville
• Plymouth – Barracuda, Road Runner, GTX, Belvedere, Satellite
• Dodge – Challenger, Charger, Coronet, Dart
• AMC – Javelin, Rebel, Rambler

The shifter also fits in hot rods, custom builds, and kit cars running 3 speed manuals like the Tremec T150 or T176 transmissions. The versatile design works with rear-wheel and rear-mid engine configurations.

So whether you’re restomodding a ’69 Camaro or building a street rod from scratch, the Hurst 3 speed shifter likely fits your ride. Always confirm transmission model before ordering.

Where to Buy a Hurst 3 Speed Shifter

As one of the most trusted names in aftermarket shifters, Hurst products are widely available through retailers online and offline. Here are some of the best places to buy an original Hurst 3 speed shifter:

• Hurst’s website – Order direct from Hurst and customize options like the shift knob. They manufacture the shifters in their Indiana factory.
• Summit Racing – Large online retailer of speed parts including a big selection of Hurst shifters. Prices competitive with free shipping.
• Jegs – Another major online source for Hurst 3 speed shifters and related installation parts. Open 24/7.
• Local auto parts stores – Many larger chains like AutoZone or O’Reilly carry select Hurst shifter models in-store and can special order others.
• eBay – Good source for new old stock (NOS) Hurst shifters as well as used takeoffs from other vehicles. Provides OEM options.
• Classic car dealers – Dealers of older cars and trucks may offer new or used Hurst shifters and can help with compatibility.

Shop around online and locally to find the best pricing and availability for your desired Hurst 3 speed model and options.

Cost of the Hurst 3 Speed Shifter

The price of Hurst 3 speed shifters ranges from $150 to $400 depending on the specific model and features. Some key factors affecting the price:

• Materials – Stainless steel shifters cost more than aluminum models. Anodized finishes also increase cost.
• Shifter knob – Custom knobs like cue balls or pistol grips are more expensive than basic leather or aluminum knobs.
• Coatings – Optional black powder coating on the shifter adds cost over chrome or polished finishes.
• Branding – Shifters with Hurst logos or branding command a small premium.
• Compatibility – Less common transmission applications can increase cost.
• Retailer – Pricing varies between online stores, local shops, and buying used/NOS.

While not the cheapest shifter available, Hurst quality justifies the higher cost for most enthusiasts. Consider it an investment to drastically improve your driving experience.

How It Compares to Other Brands

Hurst 3 speed shifters stand out from competing brands in terms of their smooth performance, quality materials, and easy installation. Here’s a look at how they compare:

• Lokar – Similar quality and price but Hurst has a much longer legacy and reputation.
• B&M – More basic design without dual-rods. Lower price but lesser quality parts.
• Barton – Good budget option but less smooth shifting feel than Hurst models.
• Shark Bite – Newer brand with innovative polymer/metal hybrid shifters, but reliability is unproven.
• Stock shifters – No comparison. Factory shifters are sloppy, vague, and unpleasant to use.
• MGW – Excellent premium brand but at a higher cost. Hurst provides better value.

While there are many shifter brands available, Hurst delivers an unbeatable mix of heritage, performance, and reasonable cost. It’s a top choice for a reason.

Construction Materials

Hurst utilizes robust, quality materials to produce shifters that hold up to years of aggressive driving. Key construction details include:

• Aluminum base – Die cast aluminum construction keeps the shifter base sturdy yet lightweight. Available polished or anodized in various colors.
• Steel and aluminum shifter stick -Aluminum sticks with steel reinforcement plates provide performance and durability. Stainless models available.
• Stainless steel shifter rods – The twin linkage rods are made from stainless steel for strength, corrosion resistance, and smooth sliding action.
• Steel mounting brackets – Low profile steel brackets firmly attach the shifter rods to the transmission. Zinc plating resists rust.
• Rubber bushings – Premium rubber bushings on the shifting mechanisms cushion shifts for smooth engagement.
• Aircraft-grade fasteners – The nuts, bolts, E-clips and snap rings that hold the shifter together are all super high-strength.

By using metal alloys rather than plastic and cheap pot metal components, Hurst delivers confidence in your shifter’s longevity. It will provide decades of great shifting.

Maintaining and Caring for the Shifter

Like any mechanical component, some basic maintenance and care will keep your Hurst shifter looking and performing like new for years to come:

• Use protective gloves when shifting to prevent wear and stains on the shift knob and stick.
• Clean with mild soap and water to remove dirt and normal grime from the metal and rubber components. Avoid harsh cleaners.
• Check bolts/hardware periodically to ensure everything remains tight. Tighten or use thread locker on any loose fasteners.
• Lubricate contact points with penetrating oil or PTFE spray to prevent squeaks and stickiness in the mechanisms. Don’t over lube.
• Wax stick shift with car wax to create a protective barrier against UV damage and oxidation.
• Upgrade shifter bushings after heavy use to reduce slop and refresh shifting feel.
• Avoid hitting the stick when shifting to prevent bending the stick or damaging the base.

With minimal care, your Hurst shifter can realistically outlast your vehicle’s lifespan and continue improving shifts for decades to come.

The Benefits of Installing a Hurst Shifter

Upgrading to the Hurst 3 speed shifter delivers some excellent benefits that directly improve your driving experience:

• Smoother, crisper shifts – The dual-rod design provides ultra-precise shifting feel unmatched by stock shifters.
• No missed gears – The detents and positive engagements allow you to shift confidently every time.
• Less wear-and-tear – Smoother shifts put less stress on the transmission’s syncros and gears.
• Shorter throws – Requires less movement to change gears for quicker shifting.
• Custom looks – Upgrade your interior aesthetics with the iconic Hurst stick shift.
• Increased safety – The neutral safety switch prevents accidental starts in gear.
• peace of mind – Legendary Hurst quality brings confidence in your shifter’s longevity.

For those who enjoy rowing their own gears, the Hurst shifter is a worthwhile upgrade that enhances driving dynamics in vintage cars. The difference in shifting feel is like night and day.

Multiple Shifter Models Available

Hurst offers the 3 speed shifter in different configurations to fit various transmissions and budgets. The main options include:

• OEM Replacement – Bolts directly to stock linkage. Simplest installation for stock transmissions.
• Dual-Rod Street – Hurst’s signature twin stainless rod design for crisp, positive shifts. The go-to choice.
• Budget Aluminum – Cost-friendly model with aluminum stick and basic design. Decent quality.
• Competition Plus – High-end model made from stainless steel and aluminum for smooth pro-level shifts.
• QuickSilver – Uses quick disconnect rods rather than pins/E-clips for the easiest shifter adjustments.
• Lightning Rod – Economical remote cable-operated shifter ideal for tight custom builds.

No matter your budget or application, Hurst makes a 3 speed shifter model to meet your needs that will be far superior to the stock unit.

Customer Reviews of Hurst Shifters

The shifter has earned outstanding reviews and feedback from customers for over 60 years. Some comments include:

• “Buttery smooth shifts – best money I’ve spent on my Mustang!”
• “Upgraded from the sloppy stock shifter – night and day difference.”
• “Easy to install in an afternoon. No issues after 2 years of heavy use.”
• “Looks awesome with the classic Hurst cue ball knob. Got lots of compliments.”
• “Super quick shipping. Shifter quality exceeds the price.”

Nearly all reviews praise the easy bolt-in installation, quality feel, and vastly improved shifting performance. Problems are very rare when installed properly. The Hurst shifter lives up to its reputation.

Improved Performance Shifting

The Hurst shifter enhances performance in vehicles built for speed where quick, crisp shifts matter – especially at the drag strip. Benefits include:

• Faster shifts – The short throws let you row through gears quicker.
• No missed shifts – The positive detents prevent missed gears under hard acceleration.
• Increased RPM limit – The strong shifter components handle high RPM powershifting.
• Less drivetrain shock – Smoother shifts decrease wear on clutch, gears, etc.
• Better launch control – More consistent fast shifts lead to better launches off the line.
• Cleaner shifts – Crisp shifts keep the drivetrain from banging around.
• Driver control – The good feel and feedback help experienced drivers optimize shifts.

If you want to get the most out of your high-performance engine, upgrading the old sloppy factory shifter to a new Hurst unit is a very smart move.

Warranty Coverage

All Hurst shifters feature a 12 month limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty is transferable to future owners if you sell the vehicle.

If any parts fail or wear out prematurely during the first year of normal use, Hurst will provide free replacement parts. You simply pay the labor costs of any repairs.

Damage from accidents, improper installation, or abuse are excluded. But in most cases, the sturdy Hurst components provide service for many years beyond the 1 year warranty period.

Hurst stands behind their products – expect hassle-free repairs or replacements in the unlikely event of an early failure. The warranty helps protect your purchase.

Customizing Your Shifter

One fun aspect of Hurst shifters is the ability to customize the look with various shifter sticks and knobs:

• Shift knobs – Replace the factory knob with custom Hurst designs like cue balls, pistol grips, or black aluminum knobs.
• Shifter sticks – Choose from multiple stick lengths like short throws.Optional stainless steel sticks.
• Anodized finishes – Available in colors like red, black, and gunmetal gray.
• Shift stick graphics – Some sticks have cool Hurst logos etched right into the metal.
• Leather boots – Add colored leather boots to dress up the shifter base.
• Shift boot rings – Chrome, billet aluminum, and other finishes give a unique look.
• Number tags – Can be mounted to show your preferred shifter gear sequence.

Personalize your shifter with your choice of knobs, colors, and styles to perfectly match your vehicle’s interior and personality.

Necessary Tools and Skills

Thanks to the bolt-in design, installing a Hurst shifter is quite simple for DIYers with basic mechanical skills and tools, including:

• Socket set & wrenches – For removing the stock shifter, tightening mounting bolts, and connecting rods.
• Pliers – Helpful for removing E-clips and spring steel snap rings during installation.
• Screwdrivers – Flat and Philips heads useful for removing interior trim pieces as needed.
• Floor jack & jack stands – For safely raising the vehicle to access the transmission shifter area.
• Thread locker – Prevents critical bolts from loosening over time.
• Transmission fluid – New fluid is recommended when changing shifters.
• Cleaning supplies – For cleaning off old grease and dirt during install.

With typical hand tools found in most garages, you can install a Hurst shifter in 2-4 hours without issues. No complex fabrication required.

Is Professional Installation Recommended?

Due to the bolt-in design and included instructions, Hurst shifters can generally be installed DIY without needing professional help. However, you may want a shop’s assistance if:

• Your vehicle has a transmission model the shifter wasn’t originally designed for. The shop can verify fitment and compatibility.
• You don’t have the proper tools, large workspace, or ability to safely lift the vehicle.
• Your transmission has unknown service history. The shop can inspect for issues during install.
• You don’t have time for a DIY project. Paying a shop saves you time.
• You want expert advice on optimal shifter positioning and adjustments.
• You’ll have a shop install a new clutch, which provides easy access for shifter install.
• Your state requires official safety inspections after drivetrain modifications.

While certainly not necessary, a professional installation gives you peace of mind and saves effort. Expect to pay $200-300 in labor at most shops.

Cleaning and Care Tips

Follow these tips to keep your Hurst shifter looking and operating like new:

• Use soapy water or gentle cleaners only. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Compressed air blows out dust and debris from crevices.
• Stiff nylon brush scrubs buildup in engraved logos or tight spots.
• Microfiber cloths clean and polish the shift knob and metal surfaces.
• Replace worn shift boot to keep grime out of the shifter base.
• Apply rubber protectant to shifter bushings to prevent cracking.
• Wax shift stick periodically with car wax for shine and protection.
• Watch for sagging or torn shift boots that expose rods to contamination.
• Lubricate pivot joints, rod ends, and detents with PTFE spray lube.
• Check often for loose fasteners and odd noises indicating worn parts.
• Replace severely worn or damaged components to maintain proper operation.

With minimal cleaning and maintenance, a Hurst shifter will provide trouble-free performance for many miles.

History of Hurst Shifters

The inventor of the Hurst shifter was George Hurst, a young engineer who loved hot rods and racing. In the 1950s, he began designing and building superior aftermarket shifters for fellow enthusiasts.

His patented dual-rod design improved shifting so much compared to stock units that racers were soon seeking out his products. Hurst shifters enabled smoother shifts that shaved tenths off quarter mile times – a big edge for racers.

As demand grew, Hurst formed Hurst Performance to produce shifters and other speed parts to sell nationally. The iconic pistol-grip shift knob became their signature.

By the 1960s, Hurst shifters were factory options on muscle cars like the Pontiac GTO, Plymouth Road Runner, and Oldsmobile 442. Millions of enthusiasts got to experience Hurst’s excellent shifter feel.

Today, Hurst proudly continues shifter production in its Indiana factory, still leading the industry after over 60 years. Multiple patents protect their dual-rod design to this day.

With its rich racing history and reputation for quality, Hurst remains the go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking smooth, precise shifting performance. The legacy lives on.

Potential Issues to be Aware of

While very reliable when installed properly, here are a few potential issues to keep in mind with Hurst shifters:

• Loose hardware – Over time, mounting bolts and rod fasteners can work loose, causing sloppy shifts. Check and re-tighten everything regularly.
• Damaged shift rods – Severely bent rods will cause binding. Replace bent rods immediately to prevent worse damage.
• Broken/worn shift rod ends – These joints connect the rods and transmit shifts smoothly. Repair or replace bad ends.
• Contamination buildup – Gunk, dirt and grime can make shifter sticky and tough to operate until cleaned.
• Damaged shifter base – Cracks or stripped threads in the base can loosen the shifter. Needs immediate repair.
• Neutral safety switch failure – If this malfunctions, the vehicle may start in gear unexpectedly. Test it often.
• Worn shift bushings – Excess play in the bushings reduces shift precision. New bushings restore feel.

But when cared for properly, Hurst shifters are extremely durable and problems are uncommon. Pay attention to your shifter and address any issues promptly.

Vehicles with Factory Hurst Shifters

During the muscle car era, multiple automakers either used Hurst shifters in factory vehicles or offered them as factory upgrade options, including:

• Oldsmobile 442 – Hurst “Lightning Rod” shifters came stock starting in 1968.
• Pontiac GTO – The Judge package included Hurst shifter and knob options.
• Plymouth Road Runner – Optional Hurst shifter was common in higher trims.
• AMC Javelin – Many had factory Hurst shifters starting in 1971 models.
• Ford Torino Cobra – Equipped with Hurst shifter as part of performance package.
• Chevrolet Chevelle SS – Some came optioned from the factory with Hurst.
• Dodge Charger R/T – R/T models often fitted with Hurst stick shifts.
• Buick Gran Sport – GS Stage 1 cars frequently had Hurst shifters.

While less common today, dozens of classic American muscle cars left the factory equipped with the same Hurst shifters favored by enthusiasts today.

Conclusion

Whether restoring a classic hot rod or upgrading a modern custom build, the Hurst 3 speed shifter stands tall among aftermarket shifters. Offering legendary Hurst quality, robust all-metal construction, and buttery smooth shifts, it’s easy to see why the Hurst name has been trusted for over half a century. With a wide range of models to fit most popular 3 speed transmissions, you can be confident Hurst makes the perfect shifter upgrade for your ride and budget. Just follow our buying guide to select the right shifter, prepare for quick hassle-free installation, and enjoy rowing through the gears with smooth precision. When it’s time to upgrade your shifter, Hurst is the proven way to go.