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The Winters GM 700R4 / 4L60E SideWinder Gated Shifter gives builders a positive, mechanical way to select gears in GM 700R4 and compatible 4L60E automatic transmission applications. Instead of relying on spring-loaded shift mechanisms, the SideWinder uses a stepped steel gate and mechanical guard system to guide the shift lever through each gear position.
The gated design gives the driver a physical stop between critical gear positions and requires deliberate movement to reach Reverse. This makes the SideWinder well suited for rock crawlers, trail rigs, race vehicles, custom Jeeps, and tube chassis builds where positive gear selection matters under vibration, impact, and aggressive driving conditions.
Several gate configurations are available so the shifter can be matched to the transmission's valve body and the way the vehicle is used. Choose the correct gate pattern before ordering.
Includes:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Winters Performance |
| Product Type | SideWinder Gated Automatic Transmission Shifter |
| Transmission Compatibility | GM 700R4 / Compatible 4L60E Applications |
| Shifter Operation | Cable-Operated |
| Gate Style | Mechanical Stepped Gate |
| Reverse Protection | Mechanical Guard / Gated Reverse Entry |
| Cable Length | 5 ft. |
| Gate Options | Standard, Reverse, RockGate, Reverse RockGate |
| Installation | Console or Custom Chassis Mounting |
Designed For:
Common Applications:
Fitment Notes:
For custom console or tube chassis installations, the Wide Open Design Shifter Mounting Brackets provide a rigid mounting point for the SideWinder housing.
The gate needs to match the transmission's shift pattern and valve body configuration.
If you are unsure which gate matches your transmission, confirm the valve body and shift pattern before ordering.
The steel gate physically guides the shift lever through its gear positions. Rather than depending on spring-loaded levers to prevent an unwanted shift, the SideWinder uses the shape of the gate and mechanical stops to control where the lever can move.
Reverse is separated from the forward gear path by the gated design. The driver must intentionally move the shift lever through the Reverse portion of the gate rather than simply pushing the lever straight past the forward gears.
No. The SideWinder provides the mechanical gear-selection input at the transmission. A 4L60E still requires the appropriate electronic transmission control system for functions such as shift timing, line pressure, and torque converter operation.
No. The transmissions are related, but they are not the same. The 700R4 is hydraulically controlled and was later renamed the 4L60 before GM introduced the electronically controlled 4L60E. Always verify the exact transmission before choosing linkage or other installation components.
A 5 ft. cable works well for many conventional front-engine installations. Custom tube chassis, unusual console locations, rear-engine vehicles, or routing around exhaust and drivetrain components may require a longer cable.
Set the shifter and transmission in the same gear position before making the final cable adjustment. After adjustment, move the shifter through the entire gear range and verify that the transmission fully reaches each corresponding position without binding or running out of cable travel.
