Teton Workshop 5th Gen 4Runner Shift Knob

Teton Workshop’s Shift Knob For the 5th Gen 4Runner

When I think back on the countless hours I was consumed with the in-depth planning of my build and diving into the minutia of every need and desire building an extensive parts list for the perfect adventure rig.

There is very little that I didn’t think about and I was sure I had everything I needed until I was scrolling the endless sea of Instagram and came across a small detail that is probably one of the most used peripheral devices besides the steering wheel. I can honestly say that I never think about my gear shift knob even though my hand rests on it for hours a day, get your mind out of the gutter this is no euphemism!

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One Man Band

The Instagram image caught my eye as I am nuts when it comes to blades and it reminded me of my favorite knives.

So I looked up Teton Workshop online and realized they have a total of 3 products and all of them are gear shifters for Toyotas. I was impressed with the design of such a small scale shop that I reached out and found that there is an actual connection between them and Tops Knives. I spoke with Colten the Owner, Designer, Manufacturer, Marketer, Shipper, and… well you get the point of a one-man-show. He confirmed my suspension as he has worked in the CNC shop that makes the Blades for Tops for 11 years.

With over a decade of experience in machining and a solid support structure in place, he decided to tackle the massive beast that is a small business owner. He began his design with form, using molding clay to find the best ergonomic shape. After being satisfied he made a prototype. 

A few evolutions later, we have what we see today, and really he kinda nailed it out of the gate. When I mentioned one-man-show before, that is no joke. Teton Works is really just Colten at this stage, and besides the CNC time, the rest of the company operates out of his apartment, complete with a 3D printer in the kitchen.

At times he is able to bring on loved ones to help with packing and shipping duties but they are limited to unpaid interns. Teton Workshop is more than just a Made in the USA company; it is made in Idaho, proudly displaying Grand Targhee and the Tetons in their logo. Support small local companies. 

Fit and Finish

There is a reason why I love Japanese 4X4s and Tops Knives: the attention to detail and quality and Teton Workshop shift knob really echoes that sentiment. 

The centerpiece is a solid piece of 6061 billet aluminum powder coated with grip texture that strikes a perfect balance between grip and slick. 

Like my favorite Tops knife, it uses G10 scales to wrap the sides, which are hand fit to the base. Not only does the G10 add to grip but also gives it a very cool look as texture pattern changes and then can be contrasted by an accent color. And, yes, I chose orange for mine to match my knife. 

The Teton Workshop shifter has a thinner profile yet stands around the same height as the TRD shifter. 

The Teton Workshop shifter does not taper to the base as the TRD shifter. The backside opposite of the logo has a set screw to lock into the desired position when installed. 

Install – “Righty Tighty – Lefty Loosey”

To install the shifter knob is very straightforward. First, unscrew (counterclockwise) the TRD shifter knob and slide it off the rod.

The next step is to insert the Teton Workshop shift knob around the bar all the way to the threads. Then tighten until it stops (clockwise). 

Once tightened, back it off until the logo is facing towards the rear, for me, it was about a quarter turn.

If you really want, you could have it face the opposite direction, but this is the way it was designed. Once you have it lined up, go ahead and lock it down using the set screw with the Allen wrench.

Final Review

Honestly, I love this thing. Aesthetically it fits the rugged and utilitarian feel of the 4Runner and makes the interior stand out. While the fit and feel of the shifter is exceptionally comfortable and grippy in my hand, it is also amazing how much this changes the look and operating experience. I initially had a concern about having a large chunk of metal that my hand touches in the low desert heat.

However, in the past few weeks that I have had this on, Arizona has gone from temps in the low 100s to now in the 40s at night. Interior temperature got to around 115 degrees and while it was warm it wasn’t uncomfortable in the slightest; the textured powder coating may have a factor.

When interior temperatures skyrocket into the 150-degree range during the summer months, it will probably be hot, however, the G10 scales act as insulators and I don’t even feel the heat or cold on them. I don’t really have anything negative to say about it, however, if a Gen 2 ever comes out, then I think I would like to see the ability to change out the grips for either different styles or colors. 

Note: Stay tuned for a matching transfer case knob from Teton Workshop in the near future.