311-798-211 VW Shift Coupler - Type 1, Type 2, & Type 3 (1963-1979)

Transmission Shift Coupler – 311-798-211

The 311-798-211 is a universal staple for air-cooled VW maintenance. If your shifter feels like it's "stirring a pot of soup" rather than clicking into gear, this coupler is almost certainly the culprit. It features a square cast-metal cage housing two rubber bushings and a specific square-head bolt that must be safety-wired for security.

This coupler is compatible with all later-model air-cooled Volkswagens, bridging the gap across the Beetle, Ghia, Bus, and Type 3 platforms.

Detailed Vehicle Compatibility

VW Beetle (Standard) 

• 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977

VW Super:

• 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979

VW Bus (Type 2):

• 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979

VW Karmann Ghia:

• 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974

VW Type 3:

• 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974

Product Highlights & Features

• Reinforced Casting: The metal housing is built to withstand the torque and leverage of aggressive shifting.

• Pre-Assembled: Most units come with the rubber bushings already pressed into the cage for an easier installation.

• OEM Dimensions: Ensures the shift rod and transmission input shaft stay perfectly centered to avoid binding.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 311-798-211

• Material: Steel/Zinc Housing with Rubber Inserts

• Includes: Coupler Cage, Bushings, and Screw/Sleeve is included

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Safety Wire is Mandatory: The square-headed screw that holds the coupler to the transmission shaft must be secured with safety wire. If this screw vibrates loose, you will lose the ability to shift gears entirely while driving. Upgrade pin available to replace screw and sleeve

• Check the Shift Rod Bushing: While the coupler is disconnected, check the Nylon Shift Rod Bushing (111-701-259A) located under the shifter. Usually, when the coupler is bad, the front bushing is also worn out.

• Alignment: When installing, make sure your shifter is in the neutral position. Often, you will need to readjust the shifter base plate at the front of the car after installing a new, tighter coupler.

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