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Console to Steering Column Shifter Conversion - $800 Pre-Order

Rlevans

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OK I never cared for the overly complicated console shifter and switched mine out for the rotary as soon as I could, but this seems dumb to me.

Did somebody have Marty Mcfly pick these up when he went back in time ?

To each his own, but a big clunky club hanging off the steering column that is basically the same electronic switch ?

Do they sell manual locking hubs and an add on transfer case for the front as well?

We don't have to do this anymore.
 

RocketGhost

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I've never been a fan of column shifters. They just seem archaic. Especially now that shifting is electronic and you don't need anything to move - buttons would work just fine. I like a console shifter, it's easy and mindless and it's what I'm used to. I prefer not to reach for something like buttons or a dial on the dash.

I haven't had any problems with my shifter but if I do I'll just have Ford replace it since they updated the part and the new one shouldn't be a problem.
 

halfbakedenchilada

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I've never been a fan of column shifters. They just seem archaic. Especially now that shifting is electronic and you don't need anything to move - buttons would work just fine. I like a console shifter, it's easy and mindless and it's what I'm used to. I prefer not to reach for something like buttons or a dial on the dash.

I haven't had any problems with my shifter but if I do I'll just have Ford replace it since they updated the part and the new one shouldn't be a problem.
I've got the upgraded shifter, and I *think* it's the same, or very very close. The replacement started out feeling pretty solid, but is clunky again and makes a click when I put it in gear ... it's so frustratingly cheap and over-engineered. I've ordered the stuff for the rotary shifter conversion (but I will miss resting my hand on the stock shifter).
 

The Weatherman

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I've got the upgraded shifter, and I *think* it's the same, or very very close. The replacement started out feeling pretty solid, but is clunky again and makes a click when I put it in gear ... it's so frustratingly cheap and over-engineered. I've ordered the stuff for the rotary shifter conversion (but I will miss resting my hand on the stock shifter).
You’ll be surprised how quickly that ‘miss’ goes away.
 

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WXman

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With everything being totally electronic these days, there is no reason why Ford shouldn't have just used a rotary shifter on the dash like Ram has been doing for 15 years. It's mind blowing why they continue to use ancient column and console shifters in their trucks.
 

Firn

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I like the idea of the console shifter above all other options. I get it is just an electrical signal, but tactically it just feels nice.

That said I despise having a complex mechanical powered system just to send a simple electrical signal, especially one that has proven itself to be failure prone.

I do prefer a column shift over the dinky rotary knob, in fact I MUCH prefer it. At least from a looks and feel standpoint. I sure as heck won't spend $800 for it though, heck if it was the same price I wouldn't even disassemble to column.

End of the day the rotary shifter is simple, easy, cheap, and functional.
 

Albern

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This column shifter is a much better option than the Mach E rotary dial some people have been retrofitting. More space in the centre console and hopefully another option for 2 wireless phone charging pads that face onto the driver and front passenger - that are easy to reach.
 

ryun

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Nice! I like that this is an option now. $800 does seem like a lot though compared to the ~$150 or so for the rotary dial. And both of these would involve removing the console shifter I imagine so it's not like you're saving any steps.
 

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JAXLightning

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I want to know what gear I’m in without the need to look so I hate rotary shifters. I like the column shifter idea for the fact that it’s not taking up space on the console. I wouldn’t pay $800 for it personally.
 

topher10

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Is there any confirmation that Ford has upgraded the problematic shifter? Mine has been making strange clicking sounds after I turn off the truck, and it often will not move forward into the space. But it's working in terms of drive and park. I am wondering if a replacement will just have the same problem.
 

kstype

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Saw this in the “Things to know”:

Ford F-150 Lightning Console to Steering Column Shifter Conversion - $800 Pre-Order IMG_5426
 

halfbakedenchilada

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Is there any confirmation that Ford has upgraded the problematic shifter? Mine has been making strange clicking sounds after I turn off the truck, and it often will not move forward into the space. But it's working in terms of drive and park. I am wondering if a replacement will just have the same problem.
I am not sure. I do have the replacement, and when I first had it installed it seemed solid. It's now doing some extra clicking that makes me nervous, and so I am done with it and am installing the rotary shifter. I did ask my dealer if it was a new part and they said they didn't know. Sorry I don't have more info, but definitely the 'upgrade' doesn't seem much different to me!
 

derelict

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I would love to see this when someone gets it installed. My last 2 trucks had column shifters and I would love to have one on this one... but I am afraid that it is going to block the view to my phone and I love where my phone mount is right now (right above the coinholder)
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