VW Bus Shift Rod Bushing Kit — Stock Shifter Rebuild: Bushing, Guide & Clip | Type 2 Bus 1954–1979 (98-7096-B)

VW Bus Shift Rod Bushing Kit – Stock Shifter Rebuild (EMPI 98-7096-B)

If the shifter flops around and you’re stirring for a gear before it finally catches, a worn shift rod bushing is almost always the culprit. On a Type 2 Bus the shift rod runs nearly the length of the chassis, so one collapsed bushing turns every gear change into a guessing game.

This EMPI kit (part 98-7096-B) replaces the exact wear parts that cause that slop and puts the crisp, mechanical feel back in your shifter — the same job the factory bushing did when the Bus rolled off the line. It is a direct fit to the factory-diameter Bus shift rod with no modification needed.

Vehicle Fitment

• VW Type 2 Transporter (Bus): 1954–1979, both Split Window (1954–1967) and Bay Window (1968–1979)
• Not confirmed — verify first: The Vanagon (1980-up) uses a different shift linkage and EMPI lists this kit as Bus-only; message us before ordering if you are on a Vanagon

Why Choose EMPI?

EMPI supplies the complete stock rebuild — bushing, steel guide bracket, and clip — in one kit, matching the factory wear parts so you restore original shift feel without piecing components together.

Key Features & Benefits

• Kills the sloppy, vague shifter: Replaces the collapsed or missing rod bushing that causes the play.
• Complete stock rebuild in one kit: Shift rod bushing, stamped-steel shift guide bracket, and retaining clip.
• The right first step: Do this before adding a quick-shift or performance shifter; a new shifter on a worn rod still feels loose.
• Direct fit: Matches the factory-diameter Bus shift rod — no modification needed.

Technical Specifications

• Part number: EMPI 98-7096-B
• Interchange / OE reference: 211-798-200
• UPC: 707924375381
• Includes: Shift rod bushing, metal shift guide bracket, retaining clip
• Sold as: Each (one complete kit)
• Boxed dimensions: 4 x 4 x 2 in
• Shipping weight: ~0.44 lb
• Country of origin: USA

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does this fit my 1967 (or 1972) VW Bus? Yes — it fits every Type 2 Bus from 1954 through 1979, Split and Bay Window.
• What’s the part number? EMPI 98-7096-B (VW reference 211-798-200).
• Will it cure my sloppy shifter? If the play is at the shift rod bushing, yes — this is the exact wear part that causes it. If the coupler at the nose of the transmission is also worn, plan to replace that too.
• Does it fit a Vanagon? No — this is the Bus (Type 2) kit. Vanagon uses different linkage.
• How does it ship? Standard ground or air — no hazmat restriction. Ships from our shop in Orange, CA.

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⚠ WARNING (California Prop 65): This product can expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov. All parts legal for use on pre-pollution-controlled vehicles only.