Optionman1

Can someone please explain to a noob the difference between factory 6 speed shifter vs “numeric shifter and cables”. I’ve driven 6k spirited miles in my 03 c4s with stock shifter. I see the upgrade is very high on almost everyone’s list of top mods but don’t really understand what improves?

thanks

cds72911

It removes the slop and makes the shift firm and crisp. If you've ever shot a high quality bolt action rifle, it is a very similar feel.

PFran42

There is a YUGE difference in terms of throw, precision and tactile feedback when going from a stock 996 shifter to just about any of the aftermarket options.

So far, I have transitioned from replacing bits and pieces on my OEM 996 shifter > B&M knock-off short shifter > Numeric.

I think most non-professional home-gamers would be very satisfied with a shimmed $80 Amazon B&M style short shifter. The Numeric certainly will take you from an A- to an A+ but you will be paying an additional $550-620 to get there.

Coopduc

Do you mean one like this?

shft22

I just resent installed Ben’s ball bearing shifter upgrade, and the improvement over the 997 shifter is incredible. The throw is short and very precise.
I got it from here uniwerksdesign.com

Coopduc

Ben’s installation video...Gotta love taking a hammer to the plastic bits to disassemble, and using the pennys for spacers!

Outbound

What do people think of the function first upgrade kit? Seems like a happy medium.

PFran42

Yep. That’s the one.

You have to remove the lever and flip it around so that the “bend” points towards the passenger side. I think these were spec’d for RHD vehicles. Other than that, just shim the fulcrum to remove any side-to-side play (not necessary but I was being super OCD when I was tinkering with mine).

Now that I have the Numeric installed, I have a personal frame of reference for how good the knock-off is.

On (my) scale of 1-100:

996 OEM - 75
Amazon SS (shimmed) - 90
Numeric - 98

Disclaimer: I am a nobody with zero “pro” P-car experience. These are solely my personal observations/thoughts on the matter.

Ratchet1025

I am very happy with my FF set-up (997 shifter, metal bushings + trans insert). It has completely solved the concerns that I had with my other set-ups (original OEM, and 997 shifter). I have driven the numeric shifter + cables, and it is very good, it is as advertised.

Nickshu

Numeric will buzz and vibrate a lot...would be annoying in a street car IMO.

996 CUP cables will also buzz and vibrate.

Keep the stock cables and upgrade the shifter to a Function First kit, or a 997.2 GT3 shifter.

Avoid the 997 GT3 short shifter, it is reported in many threads here that it can be difficult to shift.

When I had my 996C2 I had the 7.2 GT3 shifter with stock cables and it was excellent.

My 6-GT3 is getting a CUP setup soon but it's a 99% track car so buzzing won't bother me.

De Jeeper

I got no added noise with my numeric shifter and cables. I used their silicon hose wrap on the cables and i was careful that the didnt lay against anything.

Optionman1

Thanks for all the great information and personal experiences. Don’t intend to do anymore track days, just used as an aggressive night/weekend fun car. So jealous of those of you who can do your own work, but I don’t mind paying for skilled/quality work.

This forum adds SO much to the overall enjoyment I’ve gotten since I bought my 1st pcar 4 months ago. The breathe and depth of knowledge is amazing, and for a total car noob like me, I’m trying to absorb as much as possible.

Thanks again

Esfoad

FWIW there’s been little talk of the B+M shifter. That’s the one I have in my car and for me the feel is a big change from stock and the price was right. Can’t speak about any other because I have this one and upgrades from stock but that’s my personal opinion. Good luck with your choice.

808Bill

I've been on the fence with getting the B&M. I have a new one near me for $160.00.

Esfoad

Worst case is try the B+M and if not you can sell it here. For my everyday driving and not tracking the car this shifter is perfect.