111-701-259A VW Beetle & Ghia Shift Rod Guide Bushing (Nylon)

VW Shift Rod Guide Bushing – 111-701-259A

The 111-701-259A is the essential nylon insert that snaps into the shift rod hanger (111-701-255B) inside the chassis tunnel. While the metal hanger provides the structure, this nylon bushing provides the low-friction bearing surface that the shift rod slides through. It is designed to hold the shift rod in perfect alignment, preventing it from vibrating against the metal tunnel walls and ensuring that every movement of your gear shifter is translated accurately to the transmission.

Over time, the original nylon material becomes brittle and eventually disintegrates due to age and lack of lubrication. When this bushing fails, the shift rod is left to "flop" inside the tunnel hanger, resulting in a shifter that feels like it’s "stirring a pot of soup." Installing a fresh 111-701-259A is the single most effective way to remove slop from your gear change and stop the common "shifter rattle" heard at highway speeds.

Detailed Vehicle Compatibility This bushing fits the standard shift rod hanger across nearly all air-cooled VW models:

VW Beetle (Standard):

• 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977

VW Super Beetle:

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

VW Karmann Ghia:

• 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974

VW Bus (Type 2):

• 1950, 1951, 1952, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966

VW Type 3:

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

VW Thing:

• 1973, 1974

Product Highlights & Features

• Self-Lubricating Nylon: Reduces friction on the shift rod for effortless gear transitions.

• Precision Molded: Features the correct outer groove designed to lock into the 111-701-255B metal hanger.

• Vibration Dampening: Absorbs mechanical noise from the drivetrain, keeping the cabin quieter and the shifter handle steady.

• High Durability: Engineered to withstand the constant back-and-forth movement of the shift rod for years of service.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 111-701-259A

• Material: High-Density Nylon (White or Off-White)

• Application: Inner Tunnel Shift Linkage Bearing

Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Grease is Required: Even though nylon has low friction, you should apply a generous coating of multipurpose lithium grease to the inside of the bushing and the shift rod surface to ensure longevity.

• The Retaining Clip: Don't forget the wire retaining clip (111-701-263). This clip wraps around the hanger and locks the bushing in place so it doesn't slide out of the hanger during use.

• Access Tip: You can usually access this bushing by removing the shifter assembly. Use a long piece of wire or a "grabber" tool to help position the new bushing into the hanger deep inside the tunnel.

• Check the Coupler: If you are still experiencing shifting issues after replacing this bushing, check the rear shift coupler under the rear seat inspection plate, as they often wear out at the same time.

111701259A