Hurst Pro Matic 2 Shifter

Rev Up Your Ride with the Perfect Shifter Upgrade

The Hurst Pro Matic 2 Shifter is one of the most popular manual transmission shifters on the market for performance enthusiasts looking to upgrade their stock shifter. This iconic shifter is known for its smooth, precise shifting feel that gives you greater control over your vehicle.

If you’re considering upgrading the stock shifter in your muscle car, hot rod, or race car, this comprehensive buying guide will provide everything you need to know to choose the right Pro Matic 2 shifter for your vehicle. We’ll cover shifter features, installation, compatibility, pricing, comparisons to other shifters, materials, care, benefits, available models, customer reviews, performance improvements, warranty information, customization options, required tools, professional installation recommendations, maintenance, history, potential issues, factory-equipped vehicles, and more. Let’s get shifting!

Shifter Features: Precision Engineering for Crisp, Fast Shifting

The Hurst Pro Matic 2 incorporates carefully engineered components that come together to provide outstanding shifter performance. Here are some of the main features that enable next-level shifting:

• Solid linkage construction – The shifter features a patented Linkage system with a heavy-duty steel lever, pivot ball, and steel rods. This creates a firm, tight linkage without sloppy play.
• Low-profile design – The shifter has a low-profile assembly that positions the shift lever closer to the driver for a performance look and quicker shifts.
• Positive stops – Notched detent positions provide solid, positive shifting between gears so you know exactly when the transmission is engaged.
• Low-inertia weighted shift knob – The stainless steel shift knob contains internal weights to reduce inertia, allowing faster shifts.
• Neutral safety switch – This important safety feature prevents accidental engagement into gear without the clutch depressed.
• Rear exit rod – The shifter positioning provides a sleek look by routing the shifter rod out the back of the assembly.

Straightforward Bolt-On Installation

One of the big benefits of the Hurst Pro Matic 2 is that it bolts directly onto your existing shifter location, replacing the stock unit. Here is an overview of the installation process:

• Remove interior console trim and stock shifter linkage.
• Unbolt and remove the old shifter assembly.
• Inspect the shifter mounting area and repair any issues.
• Bolt the new Hurst shifter securely onto the stock mount.
• Connect the provided linkage components.
• Adjust the linkage as needed to ensure smooth shifting.
• Reinstall interior trim.
• Fill trans fluid and adjust if required.
• Road test through all gears to dial in shifter feel.

The shifter can be installed in 2-3 hours with basic tools. No fabrication or transmission modifications are required. Complete instructions with photos are included.

Compatible with Most Rear-Wheel Drive Transmissions

The Hurst Pro Matic 2 can be installed on most popular American rear-wheel drive manual transmissions, including:

• Borg Warner T-10
• Muncie M20/M21/M22
• Saginaw 3 & 4-Speed
• Tremec TKO
• Richmond 4 & 5-Speed
• Jerico 4-Speed
• G-Force 4 & 5-Speed

It also fits a variety of hot rod, muscle car, and race car applications, such as:

• Mustang
• Camaro & Firebird
• Chevelle
• Nova
• Impala
• Tri-Five Chevys
• Dodge Challenger
• Classic trucks

The shifter is suitable for high-performance street, drag racing, road racing, and off-road use. It works with V6, V8, and big block engines.

Pricing Ranges from Budget to High-End

The Hurst Pro Matic 2 is available in different models at various price points:

• Pro Matic 2 Street – The budget-friendly base model starts around $160. It has standard black finish and comes with essential components.
• Pro Matic 2 Plus – This popular mid-range version starts around $230. It adds stylish aluminum stick shift parts and upgraded shifter springs.
• Pro Matic 2 Premium – The top-of-the-line model starts around $370. It features a polished stainless steel look, heavy-duty linkage rods, and smoothed detents.

Some optional add-ons like custom shift knobs, billet handles, and bracket kits can raise the price further. But the shifter delivers robust performance at reasonable prices for most budgets.

How It Compares to Other Shifters

The Hurst Pro Matic 2 stands out from other aftermarket shifters in a few key ways:

• It’s designed and made in the USA for domestic muscle.
• Components are sturdier than cheaper import shifters.
• The patented Linkage system provides unmatched crisp shifts.
• It retains a factory shifter position and works with stock consoles.
• Positive stops give better gear engagement than other shifters.
• The neutral safety switch is more reliable than competitors.
• It shifts faster than OEM-style replacements.
• Fitment and installation are easier than custom race shifters.

For domestic street/strip cars, the Hurst Pro Matic 2 provides the best combination of strong performance, quality materials, and easy bolt-on installation at its price point.

Quality Construction with Robust Materials

Hurst engineers chose durable, quality materials to ensure the Pro Matic 2 delivers lasting performance:

• Steel linkage parts – The shift lever, pivot ball, rods, and bushings are hardened steel for superior strength.
• Aluminum stick shift – Shifters with aluminum shift sticks and handles resist wear and corrosion.
• Stainless steel knobs – The replaceable knobs won’t rust or deteriorate from abrasion.
• Braided stainless lines – These provide maximum stiffness for the shifter cable connections.
• Reinforced nylon housings – Shifter housings are tough composites that survive harsh conditions.
• Anodized coatings – Red or black anodized covers enhance surface hardness and prevent corrosion.

The heavy-duty construction withstands aggressive driving on and off the track. Components are also serviceable if repairs are ever needed.

Keep Your Shifter Primed for Action

It’s important to provide some basic care for your Hurst Pro Matic 2 to prevent issues and keep it shifting smoothly for miles to come:

• Lubricate the shifter pivot ball and linkage yearly.
• Check and tighten mounting bolts if shifts become loose.
• Replace worn or damaged shift cable ends if they bind up.
• Clean dirt buildup off shifter components to prevent wear.
• Fix any leaks to prevent fluid damage to the shifter.
• Upgrade to a Hurst shift kit if transmission rebuild is needed.

Properly maintaining your Pro Matic 2 will keep it operating like new for optimal performance and driving excitement.

Why the Hurst Pro Matic 2 is a Worthy Upgrade

Drivers choose the Hurst Pro Matic 2 Shifter over stock shifters for some compelling benefits:

• Lightning-quick shifts – The low-inertia weighted knob spikes shift speed.
• Superior driving control – The precise, solid linkage provides unmatched command.
• Race car looks – Low-profile styling gives an performance appearance.
• No missed shifts – Positive stops allow confident wide-open shifts.
• Greater durability – The all-steel construction prevents flexing and breakdown.
• Improved synchronization – Optimized geometry delivers buttery smooth shifts.
• Less driveline shock – Advanced engineering reduces wear for longer trans life.

Upgrading to a Hurst Pro Matic 2 gives you the absolute best shifting experience for maximizing your vehicle’s performance.

Choose From Three Models to Fit Your Needs

Hurst offers the Pro Matic 2 in three models with different features and benefits:

• Street – Affordable essentials for street cars seeking improved shifting.
• Plus – Upgraded parts for show-quality looks and performance.
• Premium – Top-tier components ready for racing conditions.

Street is great for daily drivers and weekend cruisers on a budget. Plus adds stylish anodized finishes and better shifter feel for show cars. Premium is ideal for stripped-down race cars that need the ultimate in durability.

Hurst has a Pro Matic 2 perfect for every car and every budget so you can get exactly the right shifter.

Overwhelmingly Positive Reviews From Drivers

The Hurst Pro Matic 2 is highly recommended by customers for its marked improvements over stock:

• “Way better then factory shifter, smooth shifts and rock solid feel.”
• “This shifter tightened up the shifts in my project car tremendously.”
• “Awesome quality and made a world of difference in my muscle car.”
• “Shifted like a hot knife thru butter after installing this baby.”
• “Made my old 4-speed fun to drive again. Would definitely buy this shifter again.”
• “Easy install and vastly improved shifting. My car is much more fun to drive now.”
• “Great bang for your buck. Don’t waste money on other brands when Hurst shifters work perfectly.”

Based on consumer feedback, the Pro Matic 2 delivers impressive real-world shifting improvements at reasonable prices.

Unparalleled Shifting Performance for Vintage Transmissions

The Hurst Pro Matic 2 is engineered to bring vintage transmissions up to the performance expectations of today’s drivers. This shifter offers tangible improvements:

• Quicker shifts – Lightweight components cut down shift times.
• Crisp engagement – Minimal slop between gears thanks to precision linkage.
• No missed shifts – Positive stops prevent overshooting your gear.
• Reduced gear clash – Low-inertia knob minimizes driveline shock.
• Greater efficiency – Lower-friction pivot ball conserves more engine power.
• Improved reliability – Durable steel parts prevent flexing that causes failures.
• Enhanced control – Weighted knob allows easier modulation of shifts.

Modernizing your classic muscle or hot rod with a Pro Matic 2 shifter brings its vintage transmission up to current performance standards.

Backed by a Strong Warranty

The Hurst Pro Matic 2 shifter is supported by a 1-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials or workmanship. This protects against the rare possibility of receiving a faulty unit.

Hurst also provides excellent customer service and support if you need any assistance with choosing the right shifter, installing it properly, or troubleshooting any issues after installation.

The warranty gives buyers confidence that they are getting a quality product designed to provide years of trouble-free shifting.

Customize With Optional Upgrades

The Hurst Pro Matic 2 already delivers outstanding performance right out of the box. But Hurst offers additional custom upgrades to tailor the shifter to your preferences:

• Shift knobs – Choose from a variety of eye-catching shift knob styles and materials like black anodized, glossy pomona, and skull.
• Shift handles – Swap the standard stick shift handle for custom billet aluminum or stainless steel handles.
• Linkage rods – Opt for polished stainless steel shifter rods for slicker shifts.
• Mounting brackets – Get vehicle-specific brackets for unique installations.
• Shift boots & boots rings – Design personalized boots using numerous colors and materials.
• Springs & detents – Fine-tune shifter feel with spring kits and smoothed detents.

Take your shifter to the next level with stylish accessories that enhance both form and function.

Installation Only Requires Basic Hand Tools

One reason the Hurst Pro Matic 2 is popular for DIY installations is that it can be bolted up with common tools found in most home garages:

• Socket set & ratchet – For removing console panels, shifter brackets, and linkage.
• Wrenches – Help hold brackets and fittings during linkage hookup.
• Screwdrivers – Useful for prying off interior trim panels.
• Pliers – Help compress bushings and cotter pins.
• Torque wrench – Ensure proper tightening of all mounting hardware.
• Mallet – Sometimes needed to tap bushings into place.
• Fluids & fill funnel – Top up trans fluid and adjust if required after install.

With these basic tools, you can upgrade your shifter with a weekend DIY project. No fabrication or welding required!

Professional Installation Recommended for Some Vehicles

While the Hurst Pro Matic 2 can be installed DIY on many cars, professional installation is recommended if:

• The transmission needs to be removed for access.
• The existing shifter position needs modification.
• Custom tunnel covers or brackets are required.
• The transmission fluid fill procedure is complex.
• Diagnosing or repairing driveline issues is needed.

For complicated installations, a transmission shop can swap the shifter efficiently without headaches. They have the expertise to handle any installation challenges on certain vehicles.

The small added cost of professional installation is worthwhile to ensure optimal performance from your upgraded Pro Matic 2 shifter.

Keep Your Shifter Primed for Action

It’s important to provide some basic care for your Hurst Pro Matic 2 to prevent issues and keep it shifting smoothly for miles to come:

• Lubricate the shifter pivot ball and linkage yearly.
• Check and tighten mounting bolts if shifts become loose.
• Replace worn or damaged shift cable ends if they bind up.
• Clean dirt buildup off shifter components to prevent wear.
• Fix any leaks to prevent fluid damage to the shifter.
• Upgrade to a Hurst shift kit if transmission rebuild is needed.

Properly maintaining your Pro Matic 2 will keep it operating like new for optimal performance and driving excitement.

History and Origins of the Iconic Hurst Brand

The Hurst Pro Matic 2 carries on the racing legacy of Hurst Performance, an iconic company in shifter history:

• Founded in 1958 by drag racer George Hurst.
• Pioneered linkage-style shifters for OEMs in the 1960s-70s.
• Iconic gated shifter introduced in Pontiac GTO muscle cars.
• Shifters chosen by all Big 3 automakers for muscle cars.
• Provided shifters and chassis parts used by racers worldwide.
• Still based in Chatsworth, CA after 60+ years.
• Known globally as the premier shifter manufacturer.

With over half a century of experience crafting precision shifters, Hurst engineered the Pro Matic 2 as the evolution of its classic shifter designs. It builds on decades of racing technology to offer street car owners uncompromising Hurst quality.

Avoiding Common Shifter Issues

Upgrading to the Hurst Pro Matic 2 prevents many of the annoying issues that plague inferior stock shifters:

• Sloppy shifts – Hurst’s steel linkage won’t flex and bend over time.
• Gear grinding – Detent positions prevent missed shifts from gear to gear.
• Hard shifting – Low-friction components prevent sticky/notchy shifts.
• Loose knob – The threaded knob can’t vibrate loose like press-fit knobs.
• ** Broken cables** – Industrial-grade shift cables resist busting like OEM cables.
• Leaky seals – Oil-resistant composite housings won’t leak or deteriorate.
• No safety switch – The neutral safety feature is essential protection missing from some stock shifters.

The Hurst Pro Matic 2 withstands abuse without common factory shifter failures.

Comes Standard on These Iconic Muscle Cars

The Hurst Pro Matic 2 was the shifter originally equipped on these classic American muscle cars when ordered with a manual transmission:

• 1968-70 Oldsmobile 442
• 1969-74 Pontiac GTO
• 1969-70 Ford Mustang Boss 302 & Boss 429
• 1969-70 Plymouth Road Runner & Barracuda
• 1968-72 AMC AMX & Javelin
• 1972-74 Pontiac Trans Am
• 1976-77 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am
• 1978 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am & Formula
• 1979-81 Pontiac Trans Am Turbo

The Pro Matic 2 carries on its heritage of being the go-to shifter for American high-performance vehicles.

So there you have it – everything you need to know to choose the legendary Hurst Pro Matic 2 Shifter for transforming the shifting performance of your ride. With its race-bred precision engineering, robust construction, and almost universal fitment, the Pro Matic 2 will provide buttery smooth, lightning-fast shifts for optimized acceleration and driving excitement. Make the upgrade and find out why this iconic shifter has been the choice of champions for over 50 years!