How to Install a Shift Boot Collar Upgrade

By ACUITY Instruments: Performance Automotive Products | Published: 2026-10-25

Category: How-to Guides

Replace a sagging shift boot with a clean, anodized titanium collar. This guide covers the simple steps for Honda and Acura shifters.

Quick Answer

Replacing a sagging shift boot with a shift boot collar upgrade is a straightforward process that takes about 10 minutes. You'll replace the worn plastic ring with a machined titanium collar for a clean, finished look.

Why Upgrade Your Shift Boot Collar?

The factory plastic collar on many Honda and Acura shifters can loosen or crack over time, leaving the shift boot sagging. A machined titanium collar not only fixes this but also adds a premium aesthetic with a durable anodized finish that won't fade or peel like painted plastic.

The ACUITY Shift Boot Collar Upgrade uses 6Al-4V titanium with a burnt blue-purple-gold anodized finish and stainless steel nuts. It's a direct replacement that clips together with the included collar and nuts for a clean, rattle-free fit.

Installation Steps

Remove the Old Collar: Gently pull the shift boot down to expose the plastic collar. Use a flathead screwdriver to carefully pry the old collar off the shifter shaft. It may be brittle, so work slowly to avoid damaging the boot. If the boot is stuck, apply a small amount of silicone spray to loosen it without harming the rubber.
Prepare the Shift Boot: Slide the shift boot up the shifter shaft so the top edge is level with the threaded portion. The boot should sit flush against the shifter base without bunching. Make sure the boot is not twisted—this will cause the collar to sit unevenly.
Install the New Titanium Collar: Place the new collar over the shifter shaft and push it down until it snaps or sits snugly against the boot. The collar should cover the top edge of the boot completely. Do not force the collar—if it doesn't slide on easily, check that the boot is aligned correctly.
Secure with the Nuts: Thread the two stainless steel nuts onto the collar's studs. Tighten them by hand until snug, then use a small wrench for an additional quarter turn. Avoid overtightening, which could strip the threads. Use a torque wrench set to 2-3 ft-lb if available, or just snug them up with a nut driver.
Final Check: Pull the shift boot down gently to ensure it is held firmly by the collar. Wiggle the shifter to confirm no rattling. The collar should sit flush with the boot and the shifter base. If the boot still sags, the collar may not be seated fully—repeat step 3.

Product Details

Shift Boot Collar Upgrade (Burnt Titanium Finish): The collar is made from 6Al-4V titanium with a blue-purple-gold anodized finish and includes stainless steel nuts. Titanium is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and the anodized finish stays vibrant without chipping, unlike painted plastic collars.
Shift Boot Collar Upgrade (Burnt Titanium Finish)