hey guys got a quick question. i did a search on here for what Fx4 shifters would fit my truck. Its a '97 4.0L 5 speed. i know a lot of the Fx4 shifters will fit my truck, the bent chrome ones, but i'm not sure exactly what years. And are there any other types from other years/makes of truck? i really don't like having a straight shifter, need a bent one. I drive a 4 speed flat bed and 10 speed dump truck as well, and LOVE the bent shifters. thanks.

 

It may be that none of the FX4 shifters are a direct bolt on.

In the late 90s, Ford changed the orientation of the flat on the transmission shift stub 90 degrees. So it possible that the 97 MAY be the earlier type (wedge bolt sits front to rear). All FX4's have the later style (wedge bolt sits crosswise). This is something that you definitely need to check out before taking out a 2nd mortgage to get an FX4 shifter. A quick look under the boot will tell you.

Late style standard Ranger and FX4 chrome shifters (these are a direct swap with each other):


Earlier style shifter with fore/aft bolt (FX4 shifter will not bolt on correctly)

 

hmm, i have a 3rd gen ranger, 1997. so i'm thinking i have the earlier style. damn, just one more year and i would have been in business....i will look tomorrow. are there any bent shifter options for my year?

 

A Hurst is a similar shape to the FX4 but has shorter throws. Be sure to read up on it because some owners have had problems with leaks and rattles. I think the complete Hurst kit goes for $200~250, about the same as the FX4 lever alone.

 

yea i already decided id rather stick with stock than hurst. Maybe its time i thought about fabricating one of a tractor shift lever. We have a spare laying around from all of our IH tractors, and the end that goes into the transmission is the same believe it or not...