AUDIOZ A4
01-13-2003, 02:25 AM
Finally, got my Strat Pushdown Short Shifter installed today - Firstly a big big thank-you to Lucas for helping with the install, which was a real PITA.
I have read many posts where ppl say this is an easy install - I dont really agree (or, at least I didnt find it easy). I have large hands and there just isnt much room to work in there - maybee I am all thumbs!
The install would have indeed been easy - however the new Strat SS comes with 4 spacers, which allow the SS to retain its stock height (STEALTH MODE). These spacers are a real PITA to install as the whole assembly needs to be removed to accomplish this - the four bolts which need to be removed to accomplish this are actually recessed underneath the main centre console - meaning you need either a:) a very small ratchet set with a good selection of universal joints and wobbles, a specialist half length 10mm crescent spanner, or a normal 10mm spanner and **** loads of patience. I only had the latter. It is worth the effort tho IMO to retain the stock height (If you care about such things). Additionally, I found the spacers are very difficult to align when re-installing - maybee my technique was wrong? I took out the two rear bolts completley and only loosened the front two as per the instructions - I had a devil of a time getting the spacers in place and keeping them there until I could bolt it up.
The total install took four hours - yes four hours! We could have accomplished it in around an hour had I chosen not to install the spacers - or had I had the 'perfect' tool for the job, or had done one before and new what I was doing.
Finally adjustment of the shifter once in place is easy - in fact, I didnt need to adjust it at all. It works perfectly where we bolted it up. If adjustment is necessary its a simple matter, followed by tightening of the main joint bolt.
Anyway, impressions.....
Well the throw is about 50% roughly of what it used to be. And... I like it! The stock throw is just way to long IMO. Especially after trying a SS.
By definition any SS will increase the 'notchiness' of the gearbox - however, it certainly is far from objectionable and I only noticed a slightly 'notchier' feel. In fact, the gear changes feel more solid now than they used to.
I would describe the stock gearshift feel as somewhat vague and unprecise under spirited driving - but very nice for casual cruising. With the SS in place the shifts are beautiful under spirited driving - very good 'feel' from the stick, it slots nicely into gear and the shorter throw is really really nice and very noticeable (still looks stock tho:-). For casual driving, its still really good but is a compromise obviously. No real effort is required to slot into any gear - they just glide in nicely. This is a very well engineered, designed and constructed SS. And better still, its all machined from aluminium - unlike the stock shifter which is plastic! Ugghh! The stock shifter was showing signs of wear too - Im glad I have replaced it with something more 'sturdy'.
I would reccomend one to anyone who finds the stock shift to long and a little vague. Its a great mod.
As far as cost goes - I have seen this shifter advertised by other Australian tuners for as much as $800 - I paid a total of $500 from Lucas @ G_Chips - so make sure you shop around.
I have read many posts where ppl say this is an easy install - I dont really agree (or, at least I didnt find it easy). I have large hands and there just isnt much room to work in there - maybee I am all thumbs!
The install would have indeed been easy - however the new Strat SS comes with 4 spacers, which allow the SS to retain its stock height (STEALTH MODE). These spacers are a real PITA to install as the whole assembly needs to be removed to accomplish this - the four bolts which need to be removed to accomplish this are actually recessed underneath the main centre console - meaning you need either a:) a very small ratchet set with a good selection of universal joints and wobbles, a specialist half length 10mm crescent spanner, or a normal 10mm spanner and **** loads of patience. I only had the latter. It is worth the effort tho IMO to retain the stock height (If you care about such things). Additionally, I found the spacers are very difficult to align when re-installing - maybee my technique was wrong? I took out the two rear bolts completley and only loosened the front two as per the instructions - I had a devil of a time getting the spacers in place and keeping them there until I could bolt it up.
The total install took four hours - yes four hours! We could have accomplished it in around an hour had I chosen not to install the spacers - or had I had the 'perfect' tool for the job, or had done one before and new what I was doing.
Finally adjustment of the shifter once in place is easy - in fact, I didnt need to adjust it at all. It works perfectly where we bolted it up. If adjustment is necessary its a simple matter, followed by tightening of the main joint bolt.
Anyway, impressions.....
Well the throw is about 50% roughly of what it used to be. And... I like it! The stock throw is just way to long IMO. Especially after trying a SS.
By definition any SS will increase the 'notchiness' of the gearbox - however, it certainly is far from objectionable and I only noticed a slightly 'notchier' feel. In fact, the gear changes feel more solid now than they used to.
I would describe the stock gearshift feel as somewhat vague and unprecise under spirited driving - but very nice for casual cruising. With the SS in place the shifts are beautiful under spirited driving - very good 'feel' from the stick, it slots nicely into gear and the shorter throw is really really nice and very noticeable (still looks stock tho:-). For casual driving, its still really good but is a compromise obviously. No real effort is required to slot into any gear - they just glide in nicely. This is a very well engineered, designed and constructed SS. And better still, its all machined from aluminium - unlike the stock shifter which is plastic! Ugghh! The stock shifter was showing signs of wear too - Im glad I have replaced it with something more 'sturdy'.
I would reccomend one to anyone who finds the stock shift to long and a little vague. Its a great mod.
As far as cost goes - I have seen this shifter advertised by other Australian tuners for as much as $800 - I paid a total of $500 from Lucas @ G_Chips - so make sure you shop around.