Malakas

Driving my C4S has been total bliss - but the throws on the shifter are just too long for my taste (especially after a couple hours in the S2000).

Getting through the posts regarding various SSK options (OEM, B&M, OEM GT3) I have read a few posts that suggest the B&M actually causes syncro damage. Is there any proof of this?? - or is it just a theory (shorter throw = faster shift = less time between gear change = mashing of the syncros)?

My personal preference would be to make the throw as short as possible without making the shifting effort overly cumbersome...

Eharrison

My belief was that the B&M was identical to the factory SSK. I guess it would be splitting hairs if one did and the other didn't.

Chads996

No SSK's do not damage sychros. They simply reduce the travel of the shifting mechanism. That's it. Think of it this way. You're still pushing in the clutch, and selecting a gear and then re-engaging it. Simple as that.

C.

Tippy

It will accelerate syncro wear if you are not gentle when rowing. The rubber in the factory shifters help to prevent you from forcing the next gear.

Chads996

So will the stock shifter if you're not careful.

C.

Tippy

True, but the SS does what you "tell" it to. The factory ones will let you know something is not quite right. The SS has no choice, haha

I am all about SS shifters, but in time, they more than likely will accelerate syncro wear if one is too forceful and careless. Seen it many times in other cars. I, myself included.

1999Porsche911

If you shift properly, neither shifter will wear the syncos anymore than the other. If you don't shift properly.....get a TIP.

Chads996

DING! WINNAR!

ArneeA

hehehehe

Malakas

LOL.

Thanks for the info - I suppose its time to order the B&M. I don't know about the install though - I'm not sure I have the guts to remove all those interior panels....

Plus, I'll need a new shift ****. That Carnewal site has awesome stuff but 500+ for a shift **** seems a little crazy.

ArneeA

Just go slow, take your time, especially with the electrical connectors that connect to the center console itself.

You won't regret it.

Palting

This was asked in Panorama several months back. The quick answer is the SSK increases the chances of synchro damage due to the shortened time it takes for the synchros to engage and mesh. The editors did recommend AGAINST it.

The later model cars had the option for the OEM SSK. I presume that these model years had some changes done to the tranny and synchros themselves to allow that, since the SSk was not offered for the earlier years as an OEM option. In my 2005 987S, improved synchros were touted as one of the evolutions for that year. Unfortunately, my 2002 model year C4S is not as "evolved", did not have the SSK as an option, so I'm sticking with my OEM shifter. I actually like the length of the throw anyway.

ElTorrente

Yeah, it can wear the synchros faster. The only reason is, like any other ssk, is because it's possible to shift faster than the normal shifter. The faster you shift, the more strain it puts on the synchros to get the gears up to matching speed.

Just don't slam the shifter as fast as you can and you'll be alright.

JBRipps

If you are concerned about proper fitting, you can use your original shift ****. No problem.

J

nycebo

Palting, have you driven a SSK? It really is so impressive that after using one for a week, you will NEVER go back, and upon driving a stock shifter remark how you ever liked it in the first place. But if you have, well then, what the hell do I know?!