Hurst Ratchet Shifter

For drivers looking to improve their shifting performance, the Hurst Ratchet Shifter is one of the most popular solutions. With its distinct ratcheting action and solid construction, this iconic shifter has been a favorite of gearheads for decades. This buying guide will provide an in-depth look at everything you need to know before purchasing a Hurst Ratchet Shifter.

Key Features of the Hurst Ratchet Shifter

The Hurst Ratchet Shifter sets itself apart with several important features:

• Ratcheting shifter action – The shifter lever moves through defined steps with a ratcheting feel, providing positive engagement when shifting gears. This improves shifting precision.
• All-steel construction – The shifter assembly is made from high-quality steel for maximum durability. This allows it to stand up to heavy use.
• Contoured grip – The shifter lever features a contoured T-handle grip that fits comfortably in your hand when shifting. It provides improved control.
• Neutral safety switch – It includes a neutral safety switch that prevents the vehicle from starting unless the shifter is in neutral. This is an important safety feature.
• Multiple mounting options – The shifter can be mounted directly to the transmission or firewall in rear-wheel drive vehicles. This provides flexibility for different vehicles.

How to Install a Hurst Ratchet Shifter

Installing a Hurst Ratchet Shifter is a moderately complex task, but can typically be accomplished in a home garage with some mechanical skill. Here are the basic steps:

• 1. Remove the stock shifter – This involves unbolting the stock shifter from the transmission or firewall and disconnecting any linkages.
• 2. Mount the new shifter – Bolt the new Hurst shifter assembly in place of the stock one. Some fabrication may be required.
• 3. Connect shifter linkages – Attach the shifter lever to the transmission selector arm using provided linkage hardware. Adjustments may be needed.
• 4. Install neutral safety switch – Wire the included neutral safety switch into the starting circuit to enable the vehicle safety feature.
• 5. Adjust shifter – Make any adjustments needed to the shifter lever or linkages to ensure smooth shifting between all gears.
• 6. Test thoroughly – Verify proper shifting operation through all gears before driving the vehicle.

Vehicle Compatibility

The Hurst Ratchet Shifter is designed to work with most American-made rear-wheel drive cars and trucks featuring a manual transmission. Some compatible vehicles include:

• Ford Mustang
• Chevy Camaro
• Dodge Challenger
• Jeep Wrangler
• Chevy S10
• Ford F-150
• Pontiac Firebird

The shifter can be adapted to fit a wide range of vehicles using additional parts and fabrication. Always verify fitment for your specific make and model before purchasing.

Where to Buy a Hurst Ratchet Shifter

As an iconic aftermarket part, Hurst Ratchet Shifters are carried by many retailers focused on performance and racing parts. They can be purchased brand new or used online through:

• Summit Racing – Large selection of new Hurst shifters with free shipping on many models.
• Jegs – Another top retailer of performance parts selling new and remanufactured Hurst shifters.
• eBay – Find new old stock (NOS) or gently used Hurst Ratchet Shifters for sale through various listings.
• Late Model Restoration – Sells Hurst shifters for Mustangs and other late model Fords.
• Local auto parts stores – Some O’Reilly Auto Parts, Carquest, and NAPA locations stock Hurst shifters regionally.

Pricing on Hurst Ratchet Shifters

The price for a new Hurst Ratchet Shifter generally ranges from $150 to $350 depending on the specific model and features. Used and NOS shifters can sometimes be found for under $100. Factors impacting the price include:

• Materials used in construction – aluminum versus steel
• Number of shifting positions – 4-speed versus 6-speed
• Vehicle-specific design – custom brackets or linkages
• Special coatings and finishes – polished or anodized

Overall the Hurst shifter delivers excellent value for a high-quality American-made performance product.

How Hurst Compares to Other Brands

The Hurst Ratchet Shifter is part of a category of ratcheting manual shifters that also includes products from:

• B&M – Similar ratcheting action but uses more plastic parts. Slightly lower cost.
• Barton – All metal construction but fewer shifting positions available. Lower cost.
• MGW – Extremely high-end components and customization options. Premium pricing.

Hurst strikes a good balance by combining all-steel parts, smooth ratcheting feel, and reasonable pricing. Brands may vary in their compatibility with different transmissions and vehicles as well.

Construction Materials

Hurst constructs its ratchet shifter from a combination of solid steel components:

• Aluminum – Some shifter models use aluminum for the outer housing or shift lever to reduce weight.
• Stainless steel – The core structural components are stainless steel for maximum durability.
• Steel alloys – Parts like the shift lever use specially formulated steel for additional strength.
• Zinc – Some hardware pieces feature a zinc coating to resist rust and corrosion.

Premium materials enable the Hurst shifter to provide a precise, fluid shifting motion even under harsh conditions inside a race car or off-road vehicle.

Caring for Your Hurst Ratchet Shifter

To keep your Hurst shifter operating smoothly for thousands of miles:

• Lubricate – Apply a spray lubricant or light oil to pivot points monthly.
• Inspect – Check all mounting bolts and connections for tightness before driving.
• Protect finishes – Clean surfaces with mild soap and water to prevent corrosion.
• Avoid impacts – Prevent damage to shifter parts by avoiding heavy impacts.
• Service regularly – Re-lubricate and inspect shifter at each transmission fluid change.

With proper care and maintenance, a Hurst ratchet shifter will provide many years of crisp, precise shifting.

Benefits of the Hurst Ratchet Shifter

Drivers choose the Hurst for the following benefits:

• Improved feel – The ratcheting action provides smooth, precision shifts between gears.
• Race-ready – All metal construction withstands the demands of racing and heavy use.
• Enhanced control – Shape of the shift lever gives excellent grip and control when shifting quickly.
• Cool retro style – Iconic T-handle design matches the classic Hurst brand image.
• Neutral safety – Prevents dangerous accidental starts when in gear.
• Easy upgrades – Bolts directly into many vehicles for a quick performance upgrade.

With crisper shifts, greater durability, and cool retro style, it’s easy to see why the Hurst remains popular today.

Different Models of Hurst Shifters

While all Hurst shifters feature the same ratcheting mechanism, they offer models designed for different transmissions and vehicles:

• HURST-39061 – 4-speed model for GM/Muncie manual transmissions
• HURST-3916420 – 5-speed model for Ford T5 transmissions
• HURST-3917063 – 6-speed model for late model Mustangs
• HURST-3918441 – Shifter designed specifically for Jeep Wrangler models
• HURST-3918720 – Universal shifter adapts to multiple transmissions
• Custom shifters – Hurst also offers custom shifters built for specific vehicle applications upon request.

With transmission-specific designs, Hurst ensures its shifters will bolt in place and operate smoothly.

Customer Reviews of Hurst Ratchet Shifters

The Hurst Ratchet Shifter earns very positive reviews across leading retailers:

• Summit Racing – 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 100+ reviews
• Jegs – 4.8 out of 5 stars from 500+ customers
• Late Model Restoration – 5 out of 5 stars based on 40+ Mustang owners

Happy customers report the shifter improves both the feel and looks of their vehicles. Some note the substantial heft and solid construction of the all steel shifter components. Installation is straightforward for most but may require some custom fabrication. Overall the Hurst receives top marks for transforming shifting performance.

Performance Benefits

Drivers praise the Hurst for providing tangible performance improvements:

• Quick, crisp shifts – The ratcheting mechanism lets you swiftly move through the gears.
• No missed shifts – The defined steps eliminate missed or sloppy shifts.
• Precise control – Excellent grip and leverage for making precise shifts when needed.
• Cooler operating temps – Stiffer action prevents overworking the transmission synchronizers.
• Firmer shifts – Solid clicks provide needed feedback when hammering up through the gears quickly.

Both amateur and professional racers depend on the Hurst’s performance benefits during intense driving.

Warranty Coverage

All new Hurst Ratchet Shifters carry a 1-year limited warranty against defects in materials or workmanship. This protects against the rare case of an improperly manufactured component.

Many retailers also offer returns within 60 days if not completely satisfied with shifter performance and fit. Check seller policies before purchasing.

Custom Finish and Color Options

One benefit of the Hurst’s all-steel construction is the ability to customize the look:

• Polished – Shifter components can be polished to a mirror chrome shine.
• Anodized – Colors like red, black, blue, and gold available through anodized finishing.
• Ceramic coatings – Modern ceramic coatings provide durable colored finishes.
• Powder coating – Durable spray-on coatings enable any color imaginable.
• Engraving – Personalized text or graphics can be laser engraved onto shifter components.

Choose a finish that matches your vehicle interior for a fully integrated look.

Tools Needed for Installation

Installation of a Hurst Ratchet Shifter requires some specialty tools:

• Hand wrenches – Variety of standard wrenches for removing bolts.
• Socket wrench – Needed to access bolts in tight spaces.
• Jack and jack stands – For safely raising the vehicle.
• Torque wrench – Ensures proper tightness on mounting bolts.
• Cutting tools – Snips or saw for customizing brackets or linkages.
• Rivet gun – For securing components like shifter boots.
• Protective gear – Gloves, eyewear, etc. for safe installation.

Having the right tools speeds up installation while ensuring a safe process. Ask retailers for specific tool recommendations.

Is Professional Installation Recommended?

For those with moderate mechanical skills, installing a Hurst Ratchet Shifter can likely be managed at home with patience:

• Stock shifter removal – Disconnect all mountings and linkages. This step is very straightforward.
• Hurst mounting – Bolt new shifter securely in place of stock one. May require new brackets.
• Linkage connection – Getting proper adjustment here is the trickiest part. May take some trial-and-error.
• Electrical connections – Just splice in the neutral safety wires. Very quick and easy.

Overall DIY installation is totally feasible for most car enthusiasts. Only those with very minimal mechanical experience may want to seek professional assistance.

How to Clean Your Ratchet Shifter

Keep your Hurst shifter looking like new with simple periodic cleaning:

• Blow off dust – Use short blasts of compressed air to clear any built up dust.
• Wipe down – Damp rag removes dirt and grease from outer housing and lever.
• Clean crevices – Use a small brush and rag to clean debris from tight areas.
• Sanitize – Disinfect high touch areas like the shift knob periodically.
• Protect finishes – Apply vinyl/rubber protectant to keep shift boot/grip looking good.
• Avoid harsh chemicals – Prevent damage to finishes by only using recommended cleaners.

Regular light cleaning removes grime before it can build up and become harder to remove.

History of the Hurst Ratchet Shifter

The history of this iconic performance product dates back over 50 years:

• 1964 – Hurst debuts its first ratchet shifter aimed at drag racers.
• 1968 – Hurst shifter offered as factory option on Pontiac GTO muscle cars.
• 1970s – Shifters gain mainstream popularity appearing in TV and movies.
• 1980s – Continued prominence on hot rods, street rods, and off-road vehicles.
• Today – Hurst maintains a retro appearance while upgrading internal parts.

With steady improvement across decades while retaining signature styling, it cemented its place in automotive culture.

Common Issues

While generally reliable, some common Hurst shifter problems include:

• Loose mounting – Check torque on all mounting bolts regularly.
• Worn shifter bushings – Replacements restore smooth shifting feel.
• Damaged shift lever – Overaggressive shifting can bend or snap rod.
• Faulty electrical – Check all neutral safety switch wiring connections.
• Low lubrication – Ensure shifter pivot points stay well lubricated.
• Rust accumulation – Clean and protect metal surfaces from moisture.

Thankfully repairs are straightforward with replacement parts readily available.

Vehicles Equipped from the Factory

In addition to aftermarket applications, some performance cars came equipped with a Hurst shifter right from the factory:

• 1968 Pontiac GTO – First muscle car available with Hurst OEM shifter option.
• 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429 – Featured a close-ratio Hurst shifter.
• 1970 Plymouth Road Runner Superbird – Optional Hurst “pistol grip” shifter.
• 1971 AMC Javelin AMX – Could be ordered with unique Hurst “T-bar” handle shifter.
• 2022 Dodge Challenger Jailbreak – Lets buyers add a Hurst shifter for full customization.

When automakers want to provide race-ready performance from the factory, they often turn to Hurst.

Conclusion

With its distinctive ratcheting feel, robust all-steel construction, and race-ready performance, the Hurst Ratchet Shifter represents the gold standard for transforming manual shifting. This iconic product has been winning over performance enthusiasts for over 50 years thanks to a commitment to quality engineering and design. For those seeking crisp, precise shifting feel along with head-turning style, the Hurst delivers in spades. With proper care and maintenance, it will provide many miles of driving excitement while retaining its positive qualities. For your next project car or truck, choose the shifter brand that champions have relied on for generations – Hurst.