If you have been thinking about a new shifter for your late-model Ford Mustang, we here at StangNet.com are proud to present this illustrated technical article that demonstrates the installation of a HURST short-throw shifter. This write-up gives a real-world overview and interpretation on how to install the shifter on a 2005 Ford Mustang GT. StangNet Staff member bigcat takes us on this journey to quicker shifts and bigger grins while rowing through the gears. Enjoy!
If you have been thinking about a new shifter for your late-model Ford Mustang,
we here at StangNet.com are proud to present this illustrated technical
article that demonstrates the installation of a HURST short-throw
shifter. This write-up gives a real-world overview and interpretation
on how to install the shifter on a 2005 Ford Mustang GT. StangNet Staff
member bigcat takes us on this journey to quicker shifts and bigger grins while rowing through the gears. Enjoy!
Tools required:
10 mm wrench, 10 mm socket, 7mm socket, 13mm socket, ratchet, extension, phillips screwdriver, 7/32 allen, 9/16 wrench for jambnut (however, real world experience proved it was not a 9/16)
Read the instructions included with the shifter and make sure you fully understand all the details. If you have any questions, call the HURST help line. The phone number is in the instructions. If you still have concerns, have a professional install the shifter for you. This article is meant to serve only as a helpful guideline for installing an aftermarket shifter and in no way should be deemed the only method of installation.
Raise the vehicle to a comfortable working height. Remember, you will need to have easy access to the underside AND the interior of the car during the install, so plan accordingly. Also remember to properly support the vehicle with jack stands. Gently pull the shift boot out of the retainer on the factory knob and slide it down the stick. Remove the factory shifter knob by turning the knob counterclockwise. Remove the shifter boot by lightly pressing on the sides of the boot, and pulling toward the center. It should easily release from the console. Pull boot up and over the shifter stick. Here are two pictures of the underside of the shifter boot, so you can see what the retaining tabs look like.
Once the shifter boot is removed, you can see the shifter dust seal.
Remove the shifter dust seal, by lightly pulling it up out of the shifter hole. The dust seal attaches to the body AND the shifter housing. After the seal is removed from the body, you will need to lightly pull the seal away from the shifter housing. Then lift the seal out of the opening.
Under the vehicle, remove the shift linkage retaining nut with a 13mm socket. Separate the linkage from the shifter.
Remove the 2 nuts from the rear mounting bracket using a 10mm deep socket and an extension. Remove the metal bracket from the bushing.
Remove the 10mm bolt from the front of the mounting arm. A ratcheting wrench is very helpful here, as it is a very tight fit.