Let’s be honest. You’re climbing a steep, rocky incline, your heart’s pounding, and you need to shift from high to low range, right now. You reach down, and your hand meets that stock plastic shifter. It works, but it feels… underwhelming. It doesn’t match the raw power and aggressive spirit of your machine.
We agree. That small point of contact between you and your ATV’s transmission is more important than most riders think. It’s about control, confidence, and making your Renegade truly your own.
This is your complete guide to the can am renegade shifter knob. We promise to walk you through everything, from understanding the real benefits of an upgrade and choosing the perfect new knob, to a step-by-step installation you can do in your own garage. We’ll even cover common problems and care tips to keep your setup dialed in.
Why Your Can-Am Renegade Shifter Knob is More Than Just a Handle
It’s easy to dismiss the shifter knob as a minor cosmetic part. But for serious riders, it’s a critical component that directly impacts your control and comfort on the trail. Think of it as the steering wheel for your transmission.
Upgrading is one of the easiest and most affordable mods you can do, and the payoff is immediate. The benefits of a can am renegade shifter knob upgrade are tangible from the very first ride.
The Core Benefits of an Aftermarket Knob
- Improved Ergonomics & Grip: Aftermarket knobs are often designed with better ergonomics, fitting more comfortably in your hand. Whether you’re wearing gloves or not, a textured or larger knob provides a more secure grip, which is crucial in wet or muddy conditions.
- Enhanced Durability: The stock plastic knob can become brittle over time, especially with exposure to sun and extreme temperatures. Billet aluminum or high-density Delrin knobs are built to withstand the abuse of hard off-roading.
- Precise Shifting Feel: A solid, well-weighted shifter knob can provide better tactile feedback, making it easier to feel the transmission engage in each gear (High, Low, Neutral, Reverse, Park). This can reduce missed shifts and give you more confidence.
- Custom Aesthetics: Let’s face it, style matters. An aftermarket knob is a great way to add a custom touch to your cockpit, matching your Renegade’s color scheme or other custom parts.
Choosing Your Perfect Upgrade: Materials & Styles Explained
When you start shopping, you’ll find a few key materials and styles. Your choice depends on your riding style, climate, and personal preference. This is a key part of our can am renegade shifter knob guide.
Billet Aluminum: The Durable Choice
Billet aluminum is a popular choice for its incredible strength and premium look. It’s machined from a solid block of aluminum, making it far more durable than the stock plastic part.
They often come in various anodized colors to match your ride. The only downside? Aluminum can get very hot in direct sun and very cold in the winter. But for pure toughness, it’s hard to beat.
Delrin & High-Density Plastics: The All-Weather Performer
Delrin is a high-performance acetal resin thermoplastic. In simple terms, it’s an extremely tough, temperature-resistant plastic that doesn’t transfer heat or cold like metal does.
This makes it a fantastic all-weather option. It won’t scald your hand in the summer or freeze it in the winter. It offers a great grip and excellent durability without the temperature sensitivity of aluminum.
Custom & Ergonomic Designs: Tailoring Your Grip
Beyond materials, look at the shape. Some knobs are round, while others are T-shaped, pistol-gripped, or ergonomically molded. If you find yourself fumbling for the shifter, a more distinct, ergonomic shape can make a world of difference.
Consider how you grip the shifter. A T-handle might be great for pulling back into Low range, while a classic ball shape is simple and effective for all-around use.
Considering Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Shifter Knob Options
For the conscious rider, looking for a sustainable can am renegade shifter knob is a great goal. While options are still emerging, some smaller fabricators use recycled aluminum or plastics.
An eco-friendly can am renegade shifter knob is one that’s built to last a lifetime, reducing waste. Choosing a high-quality billet aluminum or Delrin knob from a reputable manufacturer ensures you won’t be replacing it anytime soon, which is sustainability in itself.
The Complete How To Can Am Renegade Shifter Knob Guide: A Step-by-Step Installation
Ready to get your hands dirty? This is one of the easiest mods you’ll ever do. It usually takes less than 15 minutes and requires minimal tools. Let’s walk through it.
Tools You’ll Need
- Small flathead screwdriver or a plastic trim removal tool
- Allen key set (check if your new knob requires one)
- Clean rag
- Threadlocker (e.g., Loctite Blue 242) – Optional, but recommended
Pre-Installation Checks
Before you start, make sure your Renegade is on level ground with the parking brake firmly engaged. Turn the engine off and put the key in your pocket. Safety first, always.
Removing the Stock Shifter Knob
- Locate the Retaining Cap: Look at the base of the stock shifter knob. You’ll see a small plastic cap or cover. This is what hides the fastener holding the knob in place.
- Pry Off the Cap: Carefully use your small flathead screwdriver or trim tool to gently pry this cap off. Work your way around it slowly to avoid scratching the plastic. It should pop right off.
- Remove the C-Clip or Screw: Underneath the cap, you’ll find either a small C-clip or a Torx/Allen screw. If it’s a C-clip, use your screwdriver to carefully slide it off the shifter shaft. If it’s a screw, use the appropriate driver to remove it. Keep this hardware in a safe place!
- Pull the Knob Off: With the fastener removed, the stock knob should pull straight up and off the shifter lever. It might be a little snug, so give it a firm, steady pull. Don’t twist too hard, as the shaft is often keyed to prevent rotation.
Installing Your New Aftermarket Knob
- Clean the Shifter Lever: Take your clean rag and wipe down the exposed shifter lever to remove any dirt or grime.
- Test Fit the New Knob: Before adding any threadlocker, slide your new knob onto the lever. Ensure it sits flush and aligns correctly. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for any included adapters.
- Apply Threadlocker (Optional): If your new knob uses set screws, it’s a good idea to apply a tiny drop of blue threadlocker to the threads. This prevents them from vibrating loose on the trail but still allows you to remove them later if needed.
- Secure the New Knob: Slide the knob back on. Most aftermarket knobs are secured with small set screws located on the side. Use the provided Allen key to tighten these screws. Tighten them evenly, alternating between screws to ensure the knob is centered and secure. Don’t overtighten and strip the threads! Just make them snug.
- Check Your Work: Give the new knob a firm tug and twist to make sure it’s completely solid. Run the shifter through all the gears (P-R-N-H-L) to ensure it moves freely and doesn’t bind on anything.
Common Problems with Can Am Renegade Shifter Knobs (And How to Fix Them)
Even a simple job can have a hiccup. Here are some common problems with can am renegade shifter knob installations and how to troubleshoot them.
The Knob Won’t Come Off (Stuck Knob)
If the stock knob won’t budge after you’ve removed the clip/screw, it’s likely just stuck from dirt and time. Try spraying a little bit of penetrating oil (like WD-40) down into the top and letting it sit for a few minutes. Then, try wiggling it side-to-side while pulling up.
The New Knob Feels Loose or Wobbly
This is almost always due to the set screws not being tightened evenly or being too small. Re-center the knob and tighten the screws in an alternating pattern. If it still wobbles, some knobs come with a thin plastic sleeve or adapter; make sure you used it if it was included.
Stripped Threads on the Shifter Lever
This is a rare but serious issue, usually caused by extreme overtightening. If you’ve stripped the threads for a set screw, you may need to use a slightly larger screw or a thread repair kit (like a Heli-Coil). If you’re not comfortable with this, it’s time to consult a professional mechanic.
Best Practices for Shifter Knob Care and Longevity
Your new knob will see a lot of action. Following this simple can am renegade shifter knob care guide will keep it looking and feeling great for years.
Cleaning Different Materials
For billet aluminum, a simple microfiber cloth with a bit of quick detailer spray works wonders. For Delrin or plastic knobs, warm soapy water is all you need. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, as they can damage the finish or the plastic itself.
Regular Inspection: What to Look For
As part of your pre-ride check, give the shifter knob a quick wiggle. If you feel any play, take a moment to snug up the set screws. This is one of the most important can am renegade shifter knob best practices to prevent losing it on the trail.
Protecting Your Knob from the Elements
If you store your Renegade outside, a good ATV cover will protect your entire machine, including the knob, from sun fading and weather damage. This is especially important for colored anodized aluminum, which can fade over time with constant UV exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can Am Renegade Shifter Knob
Will an aftermarket shifter knob void my Can-Am warranty?
Generally, no. A simple cosmetic part like a shifter knob is highly unlikely to void your vehicle’s warranty. The only exception would be if the installation was done incorrectly and directly caused damage to the shifter mechanism, which is extremely rare.
Do I need Loctite for my new shifter knob?
It is highly recommended, especially for knobs that use set screws. ATVs vibrate a lot, and threadlocker is cheap insurance against a screw backing out on a rough trail. Use the blue, medium-strength version so you can still remove it later.
Can I use a car shifter knob on my Renegade?
Probably not. Most car shifter knobs are designed to screw onto a threaded shaft, while the Renegade’s shifter lever is typically a smooth, keyed shaft held by a clip or side screw. You need a knob specifically designed for ATVs with a set-screw mounting system.
How do I know if a shifter knob will fit my Renegade model year?
Always check the product description. Reputable manufacturers will list the compatible models and years. While the shifter lever design is similar across many Renegade models (570, 850, 1000), there can be minor differences, so it’s always best to confirm fitment before you buy.
Final Shift: Key Takeaways for Your Renegade
Upgrading your can am renegade shifter knob is more than just a cosmetic tweak. It’s a fast, affordable, and effective way to improve your connection to your machine, enhance your control, and add a dose of personal style.
You’ve learned the benefits, how to choose the right material, and how to install it like a pro. Remember to take your time, use the right tools, and double-check your work. Now get out there and enjoy that solid, confident shift on your next adventure.
Stay safe on the trails and happy riding from your friends at FatBoysOffroad!
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