Yes, the new hook style replaces the c-clip style.

Depending on how you use your rig, you could run the rod without the hook (or an early rod without the clip) if you be careful not to apply pressure forward on the handle while in 2WD. Without the hook, if you shift into 2WD and then kick the shift handle forward over and over while driving down the road, then the fork will contact the #3 housing and may possibly become bound or jammed into the housing. On the shaft the shift hub will just run into the rear case bearing which would polish it down a bit.

So you can run it without the hook, just be careful when you shift into 2WD that you do not go past 2WD (far forward).


BigMike