I was at a friend's shop a couple years ago and mentioned to one of the mechanics that my next upgrade was a short shift kit. His reply was that he's seen transmission damage as a result of installing an SSK. ? I didn't even ask him why and walked away but thought later that perhaps it was because the gear changes within the gearbox were quicker as a result of less movement of the lever? Does that even make sense?

Anyway, I ended up not pursuing the upgrade-decided my car shifted pretty good. Gates are pretty positive but throws are a little long. But I also think my subconscious kept me from upgrading at that time.

Well, all this talk about the golden rod set up as me saving for this as my next upgrade.

But I have to ask: any logic to the potential gearbox damage thing? Don't laugh please.....

chuck

 

The SSK shifts the leverage point so that your shift throws are shorter and the shifts relatively faster but shifting will take more effort on your part as you are reducing the amount of leverage. The faster shifting could cause damage to your gears if you are sloppy with your shifting to begin with.

 

Yeah, I think any damage is because of opertator error, rather than the SSK itself. I just installed one and I love it. The feel is terrific.

 

Totally agree with David and Duckman...

Reduced throw or not, the act of changing gears is still the same. The same human errors are still possible. There is nothing mechanically wrong with a shorter shift throw.

Also worth noting that Porsche produces these RS shift parts. I am guessing his concerns were based on earlier trans weaknesses and earlier shift setups. Obviously just a guess though.

 

Thanks. I'll be adding 'SSK' to my signature soon.
chuck

 

Chuck,

I doubt that there are statistically significant data linking SSK to tranny damage. That's a polite way of saying that your mechanics is full of .........................

Have you driven cars with and without SSK back to back? If not you should try it. That is the best way to experience the improvements in 'feel' with the SSK. Others here are correct. It's all in the feel and the tactile feeling of each shift, but it is very noticeable.

I have the OEM Porsche Sports Shifter in my Cayman. In the last couple of months, I have had 09 Boxster loaners when the Cayman was in for service. I can distinctly feel the 'shift quality (if there is such a thing) when I get back into the Cayman. Everything is more solid, precise, and fluid. I have had SSKs in all my manual cars (M5, Miata, Ruf, Cayman and Lexus SC300). I can say that in each case, there is a significant improvement over OEM shifters. I am sold on SSKs.

Hope this helps.

CP

 

CP,

Thanks for your input based on your experience.

I have definitely decided to go this route. I like the idea of the shifter sitting higher also.
Golden rod here I come.

I'm trying to fabricate a shift lever that will accept an old AMCO Porsche Shift **** I've had for years, new in the box. Black leather with crest. Will post pics if I do this....

chuck

 

Chuck,

You are a night owl. This is waaaay past your bed time.

Now get some rest. Good night ans sweet SSK dreams.

CP

 

That sounds cool, looking forward to pics. You might want to check with kiesan as he's doing something similar.