Is the shift extension for the 3” body lift necessary?

[Wes]

Just bought a 3” body lift kit (I know it has nothing to do with suspension, but I couldn’t find a more appropriate forum to post my questions).

Just wondering if the shift extension is necessary when running the 3” body lift? Also, what does it do? Does it just extend the lever from the now 3” lower pivot point requiring a longer throw to shift or does it raise the pivot point up 3” requiring a shorter throw to shift? If anyone has run this lift without the extension please explain the convenience/inconvenience of having the shift knob 3” lower. Also if someone knows of a shifter boot that is 3” lower and easily fit/replace the existing one please let me know.

My Ranger is 98 4X4 4.0 Reg. Cab. Manual (obviously)

 

[metalmacguyver]

well some people wouldnt like having the shifter 3" lower. i believe that it would just attatch between the transmission itself and the bottom of the stick. this would make the throw longer.

 

[AngloSaxon]

I don't think you would be able to shift at all. It would hit the opening before it gets in the gear. I think you can get away without it with 1 or 2 in BL, but not 3
my 2cents

 

[metalmacguyver]

alot of people on here have 3" lifts. i have never heard of anyone not being able to shift.

 

[DRangerd]

is the shift extension necessary

I have a 3" BL on my 92, and the extension is totally not necessary, in fact I think its better without it, the shifter was too high and the throw too long B4, now the throw is shorter and quicker, and it actually shifts better.
You do have to remove the outer boot, but there is another under it.

 

[c_note]

well he has a 98. just talk to someone who has a 98 and up. older models may have more room or less room where the shifter is located.

 

[Evan]

I have a 3" BL. Shift extension is not necessary, and I even like the shorter stick. This is on a 91 Explorer Sport; other models may need an extension...

 

[88mudder]

u gotta cut the floor opening alittle more without the shift extension. Applys to all gen 1's.

 

[Wes]

Just to follow up... 3" BL w/o shifter extension = 1st, 3rd and 5th... No 2nd, 4th or REV. So... YES it is needed, unless you plan on cutting about two inches out of the pan behind the shifter and moving the center console back those same two inches... There would be other work required to wrap that whole fix up, so $50 for the extension ain't to bad when you think about the ultimatum.