Kemmotorworks

We just picked up an 1984 928 and we plan on installing a PCS paddle shift kit and my only concern is how is first gear engaged? The selector starts in 2nd and goes to 4th. I know the car starts in second but is it electronically controlled somehow? The kits not made for a 928 but with a little effort I think I've got it figured out except for the first gear thing. I haven't found anyone else with a paddle shifted 928 so I'll be sure to post my progress and build once I get everything gathered together for this project in case there are others thinking about paddle shifters.

MainePorsche

Do a diligent Search. It may take a while to find the specific posts I am referring to.
I absolutely remember reading about someone who did a slight modification of a specific valve in the valve body to allow the car to start in 1st gear from standstill. The post even had images. The modification was something like reversing the side the spring was on relative to the valve.
Hope this may be helpful.

DZGunner

subscribed for interest

Kemmotorworks

I came across a post that was about a button on the shifter but didnt read it and didn't save it or quite remember where I saw it. I'm gonna look for that post now. Thank you. Any info is good info!

PHIL928

A button would most likely be an added kick down switch, to make the car feel a little bit more sporty.

MainePorsche

If I remember this one the button has been tied in, and activates the kickdown which drops the gear you're in.

Tony

You can use an hour glass to measure the time it takes for a 928 auto transmission to shift. Paddles wont make it any quicker.

Not worth the effort IMHO...but each his own

1st gear start is a mechanical set up with in the valve body...or place the gear selector..or uh..your paddle in "2"..which im sure you will be able to read on the digital display you install as well That will start you in 1st gear.

tmpusfugit

I think an '84 starts in first gear anyhow. Both my '84's have done so.....

davek9

^^^ correct ^^^
If you place the Shifter in "2" the trans will stay in "1st" until approx. red line and or 5k depending if the gas peddle is to the floor (combo of vacuum and kick down) IIRC.

The above is true up to and including early '87 S4's, after that you would need to move the spring to the other side of one of the valve body pistons for first gear starts (unless Kick-down is engaged).

There's a detailed description of the above and the exact working of the trans in this forum, there are no electronics' in the trans, it's all ball bearings (JK , shift points are all vacuum and cable, the Kick-down just holds a vacuum delay.

If you install paddles you should be able to computerize the two-three-two (going from 1 to 2 and maintaining 2, then shifting to 3 and then to 4 via paddles.

Only advantage is keeping both hands on the wheel, which would be great if you have added more, HP! However once you get the hang of it flipping the lever is not all that bad.

Dave

Simon928

Unless I'm wrong, it was always my understanding that all 928's up to late 87 started in first no matter what (meaning you don't have to put the shifter in the "2" position). You only had to downshift to 2 in order to get first gear on the late 87+ cars.

See post #19
https://rennlist.com/forums/928-foru...o-trans-2.html

MainePorsche

My VIN is a 1120, and she starts in off in 2nd. A little shifting and kickdown action when gunning it gets her into 1st. I kind of like the need to shift. The little mustangs and camaros in my mirror will corroborate this. Even an old guy likes to have some fun sometimes.

davek9

Correct however they don't/won't stay there for more than a few feet unless you are into the gas peddle.

Imo000

Just like most paddle shift car owners, you'll use yours a bout a dozen times until the novelty wears off and then it will be driven in D.

Ninespub

^^^^^^ what he said. Used the paddles on my wife's Mazda Miata three times and one of them was accidental. No BFD! They actually get in the way of comfortable handling of the steering wheel. If you'll excuse the analogy, it's a much more natural feeling when you are holding your **** when going through the gears.

Drewster67

Paddle shifters on a auto 4 spd track car would be cool. That is if it actually did shift like vette, ferrari ..lambo etc ...