Hurst Short Throw Shifter

Are you looking to enhance your vehicle’s shifting performance? Searching for a short throw shifter that provides crisp, precise shifts? Then the Hurst Short Throw Shifter should be at the top of your list.

The Hurst Short Throw Shifter is one of the most popular and highest quality short shifters on the market today. With over 50 years of racing pedigree behind it, the Hurst brand is synonymous with high performance. This buying guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the Hurst Short Throw Shifter to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your vehicle.

Key Features of the Hurst Short Throw Shifter

The Hurst Short Throw Shifter includes several notable features that improve upon standard OEM shifters:

• Shorter throws – Reduces shift throw by up to 35% for quicker, more precise shifting
• Positive stop mechanism – Provides a distinct shift gate feel with solid engagement
• All metal construction – Made from high-quality aluminum and steel for durability
• Adjustable shifter height – Allows customized driver comfort and control
• Compatibility – Works with a wide range of vehicles including sports cars, muscle cars, trucks, and more

The shorter shift throws are the main advantage of the Hurst shifter. By reducing the amount of lever movement needed between gears, you can shift much faster while remaining in complete control. The positive stop mechanism eliminates sloppy shifts by ensuring solid gear engagement.

Made primarily from steel and aluminum components, the Hurst Short Throw Shifter is built to withstand everyday performance driving. The adjustable shifter height provides the option to fine tune the lever position for your unique preferences.

Overall, the Hurst Short Throw Shifter aims to provide ultra-fast shifting action without compromising precision and control. The quality materials and components ensure this shifter can handle repeated aggressive driving.

Installation of the Hurst Short Throw Shifter

One of the benefits of the Hurst Short Throw Shifter is the straightforward installation process. While professional installation is recommended, many individuals choose to tackle it themselves as a DIY project. Here are some general guidelines:

• Secure vehicle – Use jack stands or ramps to safely lift the vehicle off the ground
• Remove interior components – Take out center console, shifter boot, and knob to access the shifter assembly
• Detach linkage – Disconnect shifter linkage from transmission lever
• Unbolt OEM shifter – Remove bolts or nuts securing stock shifter in place
• Install new shifter – Bolt the Hurst shifter onto the same location as original shifter
• Reattach linkage – Connect Hurst shifter lever to transmission lever using provided hardware
• Adjust shifter – Set shifter height and tighten all hardware to specified torque
• Reinstall interior – Replace all interior components removed during installation
• Test driving – Take car for a test drive and make any adjustments to get desired feel

The Hurst installation process takes 2-3 hours for most vehicles when following all instructions properly. Having all necessary tools like wrenches, sockets, torque wrenches, and screwdrivers on hand is critical. Always confirm proper reattachment of all linkage components to avoid issues. Take care not to overtighten any hardware.

Vehicle Compatibility

One of the most convenient aspects of the Hurst Short Throw Shifter is the wide vehicle compatibility. Hurst engineers each shifter kit specifically for particular makes and models to ensure proper fitment and operation. Some of the compatible vehicles include:

• Sports cars – Chevy Corvette, Porsche 911, Mazda Miata, Nissan 350Z
• Muscle cars – Ford Mustang, Chevy Camaro, Dodge Challenger
• Trucks – Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado, Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan
• Tuner cars – Subaru WRX, Mitsubishi Evo, Honda Civic, VW GTI

This list just scratches the surface of the vehicle applications for the Hurst Short Throw Shifter. They have engineered specific kits for popular models dating back decades to provide enhanced shifting for both vintage and modern cars.

The brand also offers universal shifter options to handle one-off swaps or unique builds. As long as you have the proper mechanical know-how, you can adapt a Hurst shifter to work in almost any build.

Where to Buy a Hurst Short Throw Shifter

Finding where to buy an authentic Hurst Short Throw Shifter is almost as important as choosing the right shifter for your vehicle. Here are some recommendations on reputable dealers:

• Hurst website – Order directly from the manufacturer
• Summit Racing – Large online retailer of performance parts
• Jegs – Another popular online outlet for racing components
• Local auto parts stores – Check retailers like AutoZone, O’Reilly’s, Pep Boys
• Amazon – Search Hurst listings but beware of counterfeits
• eBay – Use caution to avoid used or fake products

For guaranteed authenticity, purchase directly from Hurst or one of the major online racing component retailers. Amazon and eBay offer convenience but you risk getting scammed with fake or defective products if you aren’t careful.

Brick-and-mortar auto parts stores will sometimes carry a small selection of Hurst shifters for popular models. This allows you to get the product immediately instead of waiting for shipping.

No matter where you choose to buy, always verify it is an authorized Hurst dealer to get a legitimate short throw shifter kit.

Pricing on the Hurst Short Throw Shifter

As you compare options on where to buy, another vital factor is the price. Here is an overview of what to expect:

• MSRP range – $250 to $600+
• Average cost – Approximately $350
• Used pricing – $150 to $275

The hurst shifter price will vary based on the specific vehicle application. More popular sports cars like the Mustang or Camaro often have more affordable options around $250-300. Exotic or vintage vehicles can jump up well over $500 in some cases.

Buying a used Hurst Short Throw Shifter from a previous owner rather than new can save you a significant amount of money. Just be sure to inspect the used product very closely for any wear, damage or missing parts. Replacing individual components may reduce savings in the long run.

While not the cheapest shift knob upgrade on the market, the Hurst Short Throw Shifter is very reasonably priced when you consider the quality, durability, and performance. The benefits will greatly outweigh the minor investment for most drivers.

Comparison to Other Brands

How does the Hurst Short Throw Shifter stack up against other big brands in the short shifter market? Here is a brief overview:

• MGW – Similar quality, slightly higher price on average
• Barton – More entry-level design but lower cost
• Cobb – Top tier but very expensive, focused on imports
• Mishimoto – Affordable, basic no-frills construction
• BBK – Lots of options but sometimes spotty quality control

As you can see, the Hurst Short Throw Shifter provides an excellent balance of performance, quality, and value in the competitive shifter market. It holds its own against premium brands while exceeding many of the budget-minded ones.

Hurst has decades of racing experience which translates into exceptional function and durability. Other brands may beat Hurst strictly on price, but the difference in quality is noticeable. Better materials, tighter tolerances, and track-proven engineering separate the Hurst from many competitors when put to the test on the street or track.

Construction and Materials

What makes up the Hurst Short Throw Shifter? The brand uses heavy duty metals for the primary components:

• Steel construction – Provides exceptional strength and rigidity
• Aluminum – Lightweight lever and mounting brackets
• Stainless steel hardware – Eliminates rust and corrosion
• Rubber dampening bushings – For smooth, quiet shifting

The use of steel for the main shifter pivot body makes the Hurst incredibly sturdy while keeping weight low. Aircraft grade aluminum improves durability of high wear areas like the shifting lever. Stainless steel fasteners ensure a rust-free installation that won’t seize up over time.

Rubber bushings isolate vibrations before they resonate through the chassis. This results in a firm, solid feel without excessive noise. The materials come together to offer incredible performance attributes in a heavy duty package designed for aggressive use.

While cheaper short throw shifters may skimp on metals, Hurst engineers their products for hardcore performance applications. The Hurst Short Throw Shifter uses quality materials built to last, not flimsy parts designed for the lowest possible cost.

Maintenance and Care

Like any mechanical component, proper maintenance helps a Hurst Short Throw Shifter deliver optimal performance. Here are some tips for care and upkeep over years of use:

• Keep shifter internals clean – Avoid dirt, debris buildup which can impede smooth shifting
• Lubricate shift joint – Use lightweight oil to prevent binding between shifter and transmission
• Inspect bushings – Check for cracks or deterioration, replace if needed
• Verify hardware tightness – Confirm all bolts and nuts are properly torqued
• Check for leaks – Inspect seals, replace any that are dried out or leaking
• Clean exterior – Wipe down with mild cleaner and microfiber cloth

Avoid harsh chemical cleaners which can damage important rubber or plastic pieces. Use a mild soap and water solution when needed. With periodic inspection and lubrication, a Hurst Short Throw Shifter will provide precise, crisp shifting for decades or hundreds of thousands of miles.

Benefits of the Hurst Short Throw Shifter

Here is a full overview of the noteworthy benefits you can expect from installing a Hurst Short Throw Shifter:

• Quicker shifts – Lightning fast gear changes improve acceleration
• Precise engagements – Eliminates missed or sloppy shifts
• Customizable height – Adjust shifter position for driver comfort and control
• Race-proven design – Trusted by professional racers across many motorsports
• Crisp feel – Provides satisfying mechanical precision to each shift
• Easy installation – Bolts directly into factory locations on most vehicles
• Less throw distance – Reduces excessive shifter movement for faster shifts
• Solid components – Durable steel and aluminum construction built to last
• Wide compatibility – Engineered specifically for popular vehicle applications
• Enhanced performance – Car responds more quickly due to reduced shift times

Installing a Hurst Short Throw Shifter is one of the easiest ways to make meaningful improvements in acceleration, control, and driving enjoyment. The benefits are instantly noticeable after installation when you experience the ultra-precise mechanical feel of every shift.

Models and Options

Hurst offers several variations of the iconic short throw shifter to meet different needs:

• Plus 3 – Entry level model with 30% throw reduction
• Plus 4 – Intermediate version with 35% throw reduction
• Comp Plus – Top of line model with 40% throw reduction
• Competition Plus – Most aggressive design focused on racing
• Billet/Plus – Higher end model with aluminum components
• Pivot Ball – Utilizes spherical bearing for smooth shifting

While the Plus 3 represents an excellent budget-friendly option, most enthusiasts gravitate toward the Plus 4 for the best blend of fast shifting and daily drivability. The Comp Plus and Competition versions cater to more demanding racing applications.

Some additional factors that vary between models include precision machining, lever angles, shifter heights, and mechanical innovations like the patented Pivot Ball mechanism. There are also specialty models like the SXT with extreme throw reduction for absolute fastest shifting.

No matter your requirements, Hurst likely has a short throw shifter ideally suited to your vehicle. They offer the widest range of options to customize the shifter to your specific needs and budget.

Customer Reviews and Reputation

With over 50 years of business, the Hurst brand has built up an impeccable reputation when it comes to high performance shifters. Here is an overview of customer sentiment:

• Extremely positive reviews – Loved by both professionals and enthusiasts
• Well respected brand – Trusted in racing circles for decades
• Great shifting feel – Owners describe shifters as precise and solid
• Excellent value – Comparable quality to more expensive brands
• Easy installation – Most users can install themselves with basic tools
• Great customer service – Helpful tech support from Hurst team

It’s hard to find any negative reviews of the Hurst Short Throw Shifter online. The vast majority of customers describe significant improvements to shifting feel along with quicker, smoother gear changes. This product delivers on its promises to provide race-inspired shifting capabilities in your own vehicle.

The Hurst brand recognition stems from generations of exposure in high level racing as well as street performance. While other brands have followed their lead, Hurst remains the standard bearer in the short throw shifter market. Their reputation is staked on quality and performance.

Improved Shifting Performance

So how much can you reasonably expect your shifting performance to improve with a Hurst Short Throw Shifter installed? Here are some averages:

• Reduce shift throws – Decrease throw up to 40% depending on model
• Faster shifts – 0.5-1.0 seconds faster when measured with timer
• Crisp engagement – Eliminates sloppy shift feel for positive engagement
• Enhanced control – More precise lever movement improves driver control

Many stock shifters have long, vague throws between gears. The Hurst Short Throw Shifter condenses the shift stroke for markedly quicker changes. Tested times show shifting up to a full second faster in some vehicles – a massive improvement.

This shorter linkage movement combines with the enhanced precision of the shifter mechanism itself. The result is positive engagement each time without uncertainty. Drivers report the Hurst shifter makes their cars feel like entirely new vehicles.

Don’t expect fuzzy, loose shifts – the Hurst provides some of the crispest, most satisfying shifter feedback you’ll experience. If you want to extract the most from your engine, this is a simple upgrade that pays major dividends. Your car will simply feel quicker with a Hurst short throw shifter installed.

Warranty Coverage

The Hurst brand stands behind their products with the following warranty terms:

• Limited lifetime warranty – Covers defects in materials and workmanship
• Not transferable – Only valid for original purchaser
• Conditional coverage – Requires proper installation and use
• Does not cover – Normal wear or improper maintenance

As long as you follow the prescribed installation and maintenance procedures, the Hurst Short Throw Shifter is backed against premature failures. Issues from defective components or faulty manufacturing are covered under the warranty.

Damage from crashes, abuse, or lack of proper maintenance will void the warranty. Make sure to follow all guidelines to keep your coverage intact. The warranty only applies to the original buyer, it cannot be transferred to a second owner if the car is sold.

For such a rugged performance component, the lifetime warranty provides great peace of mind. Hurst stands behind their products and will address legitimate issues when warranted.

Customization and Adjustability

A major advantage of the Hurst Short Throw Shifter is the built-in adjustability:

• Adjustable height – Raise or lower shifter height to suit your preference
• Removable shifter lever – Change length or offset of shifter handle
• Aftermarket shift knobs – Replace shifter knob with custom weighted or designed shift knob
• Shorter linkage rods – Further reduce throw for ultrashort racing setups
• Shifter bushings – Upgrade to solid linkage bushings for crisp feel

The adjustable height allows drivers of all sizes to set the perfect position for comfort and control. You can further customize the precise shifter angle and location with alternate shift levers. Add a unique shift knob to match the style of your car.

Hardcore racing fans can utilize shorter linkage rods and solid bushings to minimize slack and create the ultimate precise feel demanded by track scenarios. The Hurst Short Throw Shifter offers extensive customization to dial in your perfect setup.

Necessary Tools for Installation

Completing a professional-quality installation yourself requires having the right tools:

• Standard wrenches – Variety of metric and SAE sizes
• Torque wrench – Critical for properly torquing all hardware
• Sockets and ratchet – For removing undercarriage and interior bolts
• Screwdrivers – Both Phillips and flat head
• Pry bar – Useful for removing interior trim panels
• Jack and jack stands – Safety first when lifting your vehicle
• Gloves – Protect your hands during the process

Also helpful are zip ties to secure any disconnected wiring and airtips to reach hard to access fasteners. Don’t forget essentials like eye protection and work lights. Having an organized toolbox with all likely required tools is strongly recommended when tackling this project.

Avoid improvising with the wrong size tools which can damage hardware or rounded fasteners. The small added cost of specialized tools is well worth it for a smooth installation.

Professional Installation Recommended?

Is it essential to have a professional mechanic install your new Hurst Short Throw Shifter? Here are some considerations:

• DIY is possible – With mechanical skill, patience, and proper tools
• Professionals recommended for – Complex installations, limited tools/experience, or limited time
• Shop cost – Typically $100-200 labor depending on vehicle
• Benefits – Proper torque, adjusted shifter feel, test drive, warranty intact
• Peace of mind – Certainty that job is done 100% right the first time

Casual enthusiasts find the Hurst Short Throw Shifter one of the more approachable installations to DIY. But for many, the added cost of professional installation is worthwhile. This guarantees your new shifter operates flawlessly for miles to come.

Complex procedures required on some vehicles may make you reconsider tackling this job solo. There’s also the risk of voiding the warranty if anything goes wrong during self-installation.

While the choice depends on your skill level, you can’t go wrong having a professional handle the install. It removes all the uncertainty while freeing up your weekend for more enjoyable activities.

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

Here are some recommended methods for keeping your Hurst Short Throw Shifter operating like new:

• Exterior wipe down – Use microfiber cloth with mild soap and water to clean dust and dirt from exposed components. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners.
• Lubricate joints – Apply lightweight oil or shifter grease to pivot joints. This prevents binding and maintains smooth operation.
• Degrease components – Over time, oil and dirt can build up on inner mechanisms. Spray down with brake or carb cleaner to dissolve gunk.
• Check hardware – Confirm all mounting bolts and hardware remain properly tightened over time. Overtightening can damage components.
• Inspect bushings – Rubber bushings deteriorate, so check for cracks or dry rot. Replace damaged bushings immediately.

Simple wipe downs after dirty drives helps keep your shifter’s appearance looking brand new. But also remember to periodically lubricate and degrease the hidden pivot points. Follow recommended maintenance intervals for your specific Hurst Short Throw Shifter model.

History of Hurst Shifters

The Hurst brand has an extensive history originating in the racing world:

• Founded in 1958 – By inventor George Hurst
• First patented design – The Jaws of Speed shifter
• Leader in race technology – Winning components for motorsports
• Original short throw – His & Hers shifter for GTO muscle cars
• Real wood handle – Iconic Hurst shifter of the 1970s
• Still family owned – 3 generations of Hurst ownership
• Trusted by racers – Continues to engineer performance shifters

Through his inventive shifter designs, George Hurst played a pivotal role in the muscle car era. His products were OEM equipment on legends like the Pontiac GTO, Plymouth Barracuda, Dodge Charger, and more. Early Hurst shifters featured real wood handles long before common today.

Now led by his son, Hurst continues to push shifter innovation. Synonymous with American racing heritage, Hurst shifters appear on everything from hot rods to top fuel dragsters. Their short throw shifter represents a direct evolution of the brand’s racing pedigree.

Potential Issues to Be Aware Of

Despite the excellent design, fit, and function of the Hurst Short Throw Shifter, here are some potential issues to note:

• Inaccurate installation – Poor shifter fit or feel resulting from improper installation
• Defective components – Faulty parts covered under warranty, but cause shifting problems
• Too much reduction – Excessive throw reduction on certain models leads to difficult shifting
• Poor quality hardware – Inferior bolts can loosen or fail over time leading to sloppy shifting
• Linkage wear – Excessive play in the linkage reduces crisp shifting feel

Install mistakes like incorrect adjustment or failure to properly torque all hardware seem to be the most common cause of issues. Thankfully Hurst provides detailed installation instructions to avoid these problems.

Using lower quality replacement hardware instead of the provided parts risks compromised durability. Always stick to the advised components for a trouble-free install.

Aside from installation errors, the Hurst Short Throw Shifter itself proves highly reliable and well-engineered for flawless operation. Don’t cut corners, follow instructions precisely, and your new shifter will deliver miles of elite performance.

Models With Factory Hurst Shifters

In addition to the broad aftermarket applications, Hurst Short Throw Shifters have been factory equipment on some iconic performance models:

• 1968 Pontiac GTO – First muscle car application
• 1969 Dodge Charger Daytona – Featured distinct pistol grip handle
• 1970 Plymouth Barracuda – Optional Hurst shifter models
• 1971 Ford Torino Baja – Custom off-road edition Ford
• 2004 Ford SVT Lightning – Special edition F-150 pickup truck

During the prime muscle car era, options with the Hurst shifter denoted the highest performance trim packages. More recently, Ford’s SVT performance division chose Hurst when developing the quickest F-150 ever made at the time.

Having the Hurst name integrated right on the center console or shift knob became a status symbol within car culture. It quickly identified vehicles carrying this elite racing-bred componentry.

Seeing the Hurst shifter logo in your interior triggers memories of legends from Trans Am, NASCAR, and the golden age of American performance cars. This brand is an integral part of our automotive history.

Conclusion

With its race-proven performance, quality construction, and wide vehicle compatibility, it’s easy to see why the Hurst Short Throw Shifter stands atop the market. The benefits such as lightning quick shifts, enhanced driver control, and incredibly crisp feel make this an essential upgrade for any enthusiast.

Given the brand’s rich heritage and sterling reputation built over decades, you can trust you are installing a premier component engineered for victory. Whether you’re looking to shave seconds off your 0-60 times at the drag strip or simply enhance the driving experience on the street, the Hurst Short Throw Shifter is a mod that delivers. Your boss will think you got a brand new car when he sees how quickly you snap off flawless shifts.

Hopefully this comprehensive buying guide gives you all the necessary facts to decide if the Hurst Short Throw Shifter is the right choice for your vehicle. Consider pairing it with other Hurst products like shifter knobs or consoles to complete the package. Just don’t blame Hurst when you get carried away impressing passengers with your new lightning quick shifting skills!