Mr Gasket Shifter Boot

Get the Most Out of Your Vehicle’s Shifter with the Right Shifter Boot

Whether you’re restoring a classic muscle car or just trying to improve the look and feel of your daily driver, a new Mr Gasket shifter boot can completely transform the interior and add some flair to your ride. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which shifter boot is right for your needs? This comprehensive buying guide will walk you through everything you need to consider when shopping for a high-quality Mr Gasket shifter boot.

What is a Shifter Boot and Why Do You Need One?

A shifter boot is a rubber or leather cover that goes over the base of your gear shifter. It serves several important functions:

• Protects the shifter mechanism from dirt, debris and moisture that can wear it down over time. A torn or missing boot exposes the shifter to contaminants.
• Provides a tight seal around the shifter to block noise, heat and fumes from entering the interior. This improves comfort and safety.
• Enhances aesthetics by concealing unsightly mechanical parts. Custom boots allow you to add color or style to your interior.
• Improves feel and precision by holding the shifter tightly in position. Sloppy shifter feel is often due to a damaged or ill-fitting boot.

So in short, a quality shifter boot like those made by Mr Gasket will protect, seal, beautify and optimize the performance of your shifter. It’s an easy upgrade that can make a big difference.

How to Choose the Right Mr Gasket Shifter Boot for Your Vehicle

Mr Gasket offers hundreds of different shifter boot options to fit most popular makes and models. Here are the factors to consider when selecting the right one:

• Vehicle Make/Model/Year – Choose a boot specifically engineered for your exact vehicle. Check manufacturer fitment guides.
• Manual or Automatic Transmission – Boots are designed differently for manual or auto shifters. Get the correct style.
• Boot Material – Leather boots look stylish but require more maintenance. Rubber boots are more durable.
• Boot Shape/Design – Conical, bellows and other shapes are available to match your shifter.
• Boot Color – Select a color that complements your interior. Custom colors upgrade the look.
• Boot Height – Measure the exposed shifter height. Average boot height is 5-7 inches.
• Ease of Installation – Some boots install easier than others. Look for a design that works with your shifter.

With the right boot for your specific vehicle and preferences, you’ll get a perfect fit with no leaks, optimal feel, and great looks.

Step-by-Step DIY Installation Guide

Putting on a new Mr Gasket shifter boot is a quick and easy project you can tackle in your own garage with basic tools:

What You’ll Need

• New shifter boot designed for your vehicle
• Small flathead screwdriver
• Needle nose pliers
• Clean shop rags
• Rubbing alcohol cleaner
• Silicone sealant/adhesive

Removing the Old Boot

1. Shift to neutral and set parking brake.
2. Carefully pry off shifter knob using flathead screwdriver or special puller tool.
3. Locate screws or clips securing the old boot. Remove them with screwdriver or pliers.
4. Pull old boot up and off the shifter assembly. Clean any grime or debris.

Installing the New Boot

1. Make sure shifter area is totally clean and dry. Wipe down with alcohol cleaner.
2. Apply a thin bead of silicone sealant around bottom edge of new boot if no adhesive is pre-attached.
3. Slide new boot down over shifter and align properly.
4. Press boot firmly into place and reinstall any screws or clips to secure it.
5. Apply additional sealant around top of boot if needed to completely seal it.
6. Allow sealant to fully cure before using shifter. Reinstall shifter knob.

And that’s all there is to it! With the right boot, this simple process only takes about 20-30 minutes and requires no special tools. Just take care not to damage the boot during installation.

Where to Buy Mr Gasket Shifter Boots

Mr Gasket shifter boots and all related accessories are carried by most major automotive parts retailers online and in stores. Here are some good options:

• Summit Racing – Large selection, frequent sales/discounts, fast shipping
• Jegs – Great prices, excellent customer service and technical support
• Amazon – Prime eligible boots with quick delivery and easy returns
• eBay – New and used boots available from various sellers
• AutoZone – In-store availability for quick pick-up, limited selection
• Walmart – Typically lower inventory but discounted pricing

For the best fitment research and customer support, we recommend Summit Racing as the go-to supplier for Mr Gasket products. But shop around for deals and availability as needed.

Improving Shifter Feel and Performance

A worn-out or poorly-fitting stock shifter boot can make your shifts sloppy and vague. Upgrading to a Mr Gasket performance boot provides these benefits:

• Tighter fit – Precision molded boots eliminate play and movement.
• Sturdier materials – Thick rubber construction resists stretching and deformation.
• Insulation – Moisture, heat and noise are blocked from entering interior.
• Comfortable grip – Molded finger grips and rubberized finish ease shifting.
• Race specs – Some models offer shift-stabilizing springs for crisp, race-quality feel.
• Custom designs – Special boot shapes such as conical or bellows deliver enhanced movement.

Installing a performance boot like Mr Gasket’s Pro Stick models is an easy and affordable way to optimize your manual shifter for crisp, precise shifting. Say goodbye to sloppy gear changes!

Reviews and Ratings

Mr Gasket shifter boots consistently earn high marks for durability, fitment and performance from professionals and gearheads alike. Here’s a sample of the praise they receive:

• “Perfect fit, OEM quality” – Fits exactly as factory boot, no leaks, lasts long time.
• “Transformed my shifter feel” – Shifting is much tighter and precise, no more play.
• “Well constructed” – Made from thick, heavy-duty rubber. Withstands abuse.
• “Looks awesome!” – Custom boot totally changed the look of my interior.
• “Blocks noise perfectly” – No more engine noise coming through shifter area.

The only common complaints relate to occasional fitment issues on some less common vehicles. Otherwise, Mr Gasket boots meet or exceed expectations for quality and performance.

How Does Mr Gasket Compare to Other Brands?

Mr Gasket is widely considered an industry leader and gold standard in shifter boots and transmission/shifter accessories. Here’s how it stacks up against some other major brands:

• BG – Comparable premium quality but smaller vehicle application list
• Hurst – More factory-style replacements than performance options
• Barton – Focus on budget-friendly boots with minimal features
• Pro 5.0 – Specialize in Ford/Mustang boots only
• Mopar – Good selection but only fit Chrysler vehicles

Mr Gasket essentially provides the best of both worlds – professional grade materials and performance combined with near factory-level fitment for all makes and models. You pay slightly more but get quality that lasts.

Key Specs to Consider When Buying

These are the most important technical specifications to keep in mind for Mr Gasket shifter boots:

• Materials – Look for boots made from SBR, EPDM or neoprene rubber blends. Avoid cheaper PVC. Leather looks great but needs added care.
• Thickness – Shell should be 3mm+ thick. Thinner walls tear more easily.
• Boot Height – Measure your shifter and get a boot that covers 4-8 inches of exposure.
• Molded Finger Grips – Textured grip surfaces provide enhanced comfort and control.
• Conical/Bellows Design – These shapes improve boot flexibility and range of motion.
• Heat + Chemical Resistance – Important if boot will be exposed to undercar fluids or exhaust heat.
• Custom Colors – If customizing interior, get a boot color that matches.

And of course double check that the boot is guaranteed specifically for the make, model, year and transmission type of your vehicle.

Maintenance Tips to Maximize Shifter Boot Longevity

To get the longest lifespan out of your new Mr Gasket shifter boot, follow these care and maintenance guidelines:

• Hand wash only using mild soap and water – avoid harsh chemical cleaners.
• Clean accumulated dirt and debris from creases in boot – don’t allow it to grind away the rubber.
• Keep boot protected from direct UV rays and ozone which degrade rubber over time.
• Avoid exposing boot to caustic chemicals like gasoline, oil or battery acid. Wipe up any spills quickly.
• Inspect occasionally for cracks, tears or leaks – replace boot immediately if observed.
• Lubricate rubber with silicone grease to keep it supple and make adjustments easier.
• Take care not to bend, twist or stress the boot excessively during cleaning or when entering/exiting vehicle.
• Take pride in it! Your shifter boot will last for years if cleaned and handled with proper care.

Expected Lifespan and When to Replace

Depending on material, driving conditions and maintenance, a Mr Gasket shifter boot will typically last:

• Rubber – 4-6 years or 60k-80k miles. More durable under normal use.
• Leather – 2-3 years or 30k-50k miles. Looks great but wears out faster.
• Street Use – Boots lasts longer when not exposed to extreme heat, debris or chemicals.
• Track Use – Hardcore racing or off-roading can wear out boots in 1 year or less.

Regardless of boot lifespan, it’s smart to inspect your shifter boot twice a year or every 10k miles. Look for signs of damage, deterioration, leakage or loose fit. Replace proactively before failures occur.

Are Mr Gasket Boots Suitable for Racing Use?

While designed primarily for street-driven vehicles, Mr Gasket’s premium Pro Stick shifter boots are also recommended for racing and high-performance driving applications.

Features that make the Pro Stick boots ideal for racing include:

• Reinforced bellows design for ultimate flexibility and motion range.
• Dual-spring steel band securely retains the shift lever in center position.
• Zero play or looseness results in very precise shifter positioning.
• Constructed from heat resistant SBR rubber to withstand engine bay temps.
• Rugged build quality and superior sealing handles vibration and G-forces.

So whether you’re hitting the drag strip every weekend or just pushing your muscle car to its limits on backroad runs, Pro Stick boots will provide accurate, firm shifting – essential for optimal throttle response and lap times.

Are Mr Gasket Boots Easy to Install Yourself?

Thanks to their well-engineered design and universal fitment, Mr Gasket shifter boots consistently get high ratings for easy, do-it-yourself installation:

• All-inclusive design – Boots come with integrated retaining rings/clips. No extra parts to buy.
• Foolproof fitting -indexing ribs and grooves allow only proper orientation.
• Direct factory replacement – Boots mimic the OE shape and fit.
• Ideal sizing – Dimensions are tailored to exactly replace stock boots.
• Minimal tools needed – Just a screw driver and pliers in most cases.

As long as you have basic mechanical competency, some patience and follow the instructions, anyone can swap in a new shifter boot in half an hour or less. It’s much easier than it looks!

Of course, you can always pay a shop to install the boot for you. But you’ll save significant labor charges doing the work yourself.

Materials Used in Mr Gasket Boot Construction

Mr Gasket engineers their shifter boots using specially formulated rubber blends to maximize performance, durability and feel:

• SBR Rubber – Styrene-butadiene is resistant to oil, heat and abrasion common in gearbox environments.
• Neoprene – Added for flexibility, good weathering properties. Protects against ozone damage.
• Silicone – Improves tear resistance and provides a soft, non-stick feel.
• Fiberglass – Reinforces boot walls against deformation without loss of flexibility.
• PVC – Some economy boots use polyvinyl chloride rubber but it is less durable.

The company also offers leather boots for show cars and street rods seeking a classic high-end look. Unlike rubber, leather requires added care and maintenance.

Thanks to their premium materials and components, Mr Gasket boots deliver the perfect balance of resilient protection, precise fit, cushioned feel and customized style.

Finding Discounts on Your Boot Purchase

Mr Gasket shifter boots are reasonably priced for their quality construction – ranging from $20 up to $75+ depending on model. Here are some tips for getting a deal:

• Check seller websites for any current promotions, coupons or seasonal sales
• Sign up for email newsletters from retailers to get alerts on flash sales or exclusive subscriber discounts.
• Look for free shipping offers that help offset purchase price.
• Buy bundled sets of interior accessories like shifter boot, e-brake boot, pedal covers to maximize savings.
• Consider group buys with other car enthusiasts to qualify for bulk purchase discounts.
• Shop price comparison sites like PartsGeek.com to instantly find the best daily deal.
• Buy during off-season times of year when parts sellers offer incentives to boost slow sales.

With some smart shopping, you can find a top-quality Mr Gasket shifter boot and upgrade your interior without breaking the bank.

Troubleshooting Common Shifter Boot Problems

Mr Gasket boots are engineered to last, but here are some tips to troubleshoot issues if they arise:

Boot is torn/damaged – Carefully examine interior and undercarriage to locate source of rubbing or abrasion. Install boot protector pads as needed. Replace torn boot promptly.

Transmission noise/vibration – Ensure boot is fully sealed at top and bottom flanges. Reapply adhesive/silicone if needed to eliminate gaps. Insulate with rubber pad.

Boot is leaking – Completely clean boot sealing surfaces of old adhesive. Apply fresh silicone and firmly press into place. Check for alignment issues.

Boot is loose/sloppy – Boot should fit shifter tightly with no play. Use a boot with more ridges/grooves or install an adjustable locking collar.

Shifter hard to move – Loosen boot tension by trimming upper portion slightly until motion is smooth. Lubricate linkage.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls and Mistakes

Installing a Mr Gasket shifter boot is one of the simpler DIY upgrades – but avoid these common mistakes:

• Forcing a boot onto the wrong transmission style (auto vs manual). Measure twice to verify.
• Not cleaning and degreasing fully before applying boot adhesive. It won’t stick.
• Skimping on sealant. Completely seal the lip of the new boot to prevent leaks.
• Overtightening gear shift collar and restricting shifter movement. Adjust as needed.
• Using sharp tools near the boot that can scratch or puncture it. Work cautiously.
• Allowing debris/dirt to collect in boot pleats over time, degrading the rubber. Clean boot regularly.
• Neglecting routine inspections for damage. Small tears only get bigger.

Following the manufacturer instructions and taking your time will ensure a clean shifter boot installation free of problems down the road.

Keeping Your Shifter Boot Looking Like New

To keep your Mr Gasket boot shining for years to come:

• Use a mild interior cleaner or just soap and water to gently scrub boot when dirty. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• If the rubber appears dry or faded, apply a UV protectant /vinyl treatment to restore rich color and luster.
• For leather boots, clean with a quality leather care product and apply leather conditioner regularly to prevent cracks.
• Immediately wipe away any spilled fluids or oils from the boot using clean towels. Don’t allow chemicals to soak in.
• With heavy accumulation of dirt and grime, use an interior scrub brush and degreaser diluted with water to prep the surface. Rinse and dry fully.
• Avoid hitting boot with pressure washers. High pressure water can penetrate seams and damage adhesive seals.
• If boot gets flattened or compressed when not shifting, use a soft object like a sock filled with rice to hold its shape.

With routine cleaning and treatment, your shifter boot will continue looking factory-fresh for maximum visual appeal.

Helpful DIY Installation Tips

Streamline your Mr Gasket shifter boot install with these handy tips:

• Before prying off the old boot, spray adhesive area with lubricant like WD-40 to prevent sticker residue build up.
• Twist back and forth when removing stubborn shifter knobs stuck on with adhesive. Don’t just pull up.
• Stuff a few clean rags down into the shifter housing while it’s open to soak up accumulated grime and fluids.
• Test fit the new boot dry without any ahesive first to ensure proper sizing before sealing it on permanently.
• Apply silicone sealant in a continuous bead without gaps, fully encircling the boot lip.
• Once seated, don’t slide the boot around into position. Press straight down firmly to avoid breaking the seal.
• Double check alignment before the sealant sets fully. It can be difficult to reposition once the silicone begins to cure.
• To make removal easier next time, use semi-permanent rubberized adhesive instead of silicone that sticks permanently.

Following these tips will have you swapping shifter boots quickly and hassle-free. Then get ready to enjoy that new-boot feel!

Is a Mr Gasket Boot Right for Beginners?

With their precision fit and easy “bolt-on” installation, Mr Gasket shifter boots are absolutely beginner-friendly. Here’s why they’re perfect for your first DIY interior upgrade project:

• Straightforward removal of just a couple screws or clips to take off the old boot.
• No complex disassembly required – the boot pops right on over the top of the existing shifter.
• Minimal tools needed – standard screwdriver and pliers are usually sufficient.
• Detailed instructions with photos walk you through each step of the process. No guesswork.
• Attaching the new boot is a simple cleaning and adhesive application task anyone can complete.
• Adjusting or fine tuning is not necessary. The boot either fits your shifter or it doesn’t.
• No need to do anything under the car. The work is all conveniently performed inside the vehicle.

As long as you can wield a few hand tools, carefully follow DIY directions, and take your time, even total beginners can successfully install a Mr Gasket boot. It’s one of the most straightforward upgrades out there.

Handy Tools to Have on Hand for Installation

You don’t need an elaborate toolkit to swap on a new Mr Gasket shifter boot. Having these basic tools on hand will make the process much smoother:

• Flat head screwdriver – For prying off shifter knob and any screws or clips
• Needle nose pliers – Helpful for getting a grip on clips and fasteners in tight spaces
• Razor blade – For cutting away any old adhesive residue or silicone
• Degreaser – Clean and prep boot area thoroughly so new adhesive sticks
• Shop rags/paper towels – For cleaning and drying mounting surfaces
• Rubber mallet – Helpful for tapping boot into place firmly without damaging it
• Sealant applicator – Caulk gun or small spatula for applying uniform adhesive bead
• Flashlight – For seeing into crevices and ensuring proper alignment
• Gloves – Protect hands from grime, chemicals and silicone residue

Nothing fancy needed – just gather this basic list and you’ll breeze right through the job using items already in your garage.

Does Mr Gasket Offer a Warranty?

Mr Gasket stands behind all materials and worksmanship in their shifter boots and provides a 90-day manufacturer’s warranty from date of purchase. This ensures you receive a high quality, defect-free product.

If any issues covered under warranty occur within the first 90 days – such as cracking, tearing of the boot or poor fitment – simply contact Mr Gasket customer support with proof of purchase date and photos of the problem.

They will promptly send out a brand new replacement boot at no charge. The company is very responsive and helpful whenever any warranty claims arise.

It’s this commitment to 100% customer satisfaction that makes Mr Gasket an industry leader trusted by professional mechanics and weekend warriors alike. Invest with confidence and get peace of mind thanks to the strong warranty protection.

Conclusion

Upgrading to a Mr Gasket performance shifter boot is one of the simplest ways to protect your transmission, seal out contaminants, improve shifting precision, and add some style to your interior. With the buying advice in this guide, you can select the perfect boot for your vehicle’s needs and specs.

Take the time to properly clean and prepare the mounting area, seal the edges completely, and handle the boot gently during installation. Following the step-by-step directions, anyone can tackle this easy one-hour project in their home garage.

Investing in a quality boot from the experts at Mr Gasket will provide years of like-new performance, while improper fitment or lack of maintenance shortens boot lifespan considerably. But rest assured their proven designs and premium materials will provide a factory-quality fit and feel that restores and optimizes your shifter performance.