Short shifters

Post by **Don-Tucker** » 29 May 2006, 20:27

Does anyone know how these work and whats involved in the kit.
Don

Post by **HarryMann** » 29 May 2006, 20:42

Effectively the shift lever is dropped slightly, so that that the lever-arm below the ball-joint in the floor plate is increased and that above is decreased - less movement above >> same movement below. It works... just a few spacers and replacement parts, and a bit of drilling required I believe.

Post by **Don-Tucker** » 29 May 2006, 21:20

Can any one expand on that as I can't see from Harry's explanation that it would make that much difference.
Don

Post by **HarryMann** » 29 May 2006, 22:41

'They' are all away at the Bashtie, i expect...

but in the meantine, what sort of difference were you expecting?

bear in mind there can't be that much differnce made anyway, as the geometry down below would preclude it. The effect is not because the lever is shortened above the floor-plate, but because the lever-arm ratio is changed...

I don't have one, but understand they do sharpen up the gearchange a bit and most importantly if there's wear in the selectors or the adjustment is out, they prevent the resulting knuckle bashing on the dash or radio knobs.

What I can say, is you won't be getting a snickety-snick modern car gearchange feel or certainty... but it will be better.

Over

Post by **MikeB** » 29 May 2006, 23:02

As I understand it the short shifter moves the pivot point of the gear lever up. By doing this it reduces the amount the top of the lever needs to move in order to effect the same movement at the lower part of the lever.

I did have a drawing but I'm at work at the moment and couldn't get it uploaded anywhere.

Mike.

Post by **HarryMann** » 29 May 2006, 23:03

Exactly,

The effect is not because the lever is shortened above the floor-plate, but because the lever-arm ratio is changed...

or put another way..

the shift lever is dropped slightly, so that that the lever-arm below the ball-joint in the floor plate is increased and that above is decreased - less movement above >> same movement below

Post by **Don-Tucker** » 30 May 2006, 06:22

Thanks for all that boys,to be honest I want to make the bits myself so that drawing would be great Mike and any dimensions.
Don

Post by **Don-Tucker** » 30 May 2006, 07:28

For some reason I cannot access that site,Bob,it says page cannot be found.
Don

Post by **Don-Tucker** » 30 May 2006, 07:37

Got it now Bob,thats a great help,all I need now is a few sizes, anyone ?
Don

Post by **toomanytoys** » 30 May 2006, 15:28

Hi
My shifter kits reduce the throw by approx 30%m which makes for a easier change, if the rest of your linkage is in good condition, it wont take out the slack of worn bushes though.

I designed and had the kits made.. and they are so easy to fit, that even Mr Baxter sells/fits my kits rather than getting some made, he really rates it.

Of course if you have the facilities to make one go ahead, but I would be less than happy for dimensions to be posted on an open forum. So please respect that.
Cheers
Si

Post by **Don-Tucker** » 30 May 2006, 16:03

I can appreciate that,it was just a thought but I don't want to infringe your or anyone else's ideas.Where could I buy a kit.
Don

Post by **toomanytoys** » 30 May 2006, 17:04

Not a problem, like I said if you have the facilities to make the components up, then have a go, but a tried and tested bolt in kit is a lot easier... depends on how mechanical you are.. I did three prototypes before I got it just so!! and the last one is still "on test" in my bus (4 years and 60k miles)

Kits are available from me direct (mail me for details) or Simon Baxter at www.brickwerks.co.uk has them on the shelf (and at shows) and does fitting if needed, CJ at www.syncrospares.co.uk can also supply and fit.

Post by **Don-Tucker** » 30 May 2006, 19:56

I might just have a go,I am a retired mechanical engineer with a lathe and the usual workshop equipment and plenty of time.
Thanks Don

Post by **Don-Tucker** » 31 May 2006, 13:47

Just been out for a test run after making the bits for a shorter shift,oh boy what a difference,a pleasure to drive,I would recommend every one to have one fitted( there's a good ad for you Toomanytoys).
Don

Post by **HarryMann** » 31 May 2006, 18:28

Now, if you do the middle and rear bushes (see Wiki for part nos and description of job) you'll be further amazed!