Moving the shifter
09-18-2009, 01:21 AM
#1
Weathergirl
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Thread Starter
Moving the shifter
I installed a 997 shifter a while ago. It came with the factory installation/location jig, and that's how I located the lever. As I was installing it, I realized that the jig was just to keep the lever aesthetically vertical, and had no bearing on function.
My perception was that it really didn't slide into gear as well as it might have.
This weekend I had the console off to run an iPod cable, and I decided to relocate the shifter neutral position rearward and leftward. It's easy to do: move the left cable connector forward and the right cable connector back in relation to the shifter and it's done.
At first I thought I went too far. The shifter has a definite leftward slant. But the function is transformed! It feels more direct and feels like it slots into gear more smoothly. I know that's not literally possible, so the change in feel has to be from the altered ergonomics. The 1-2 shift is much closer to my leg now, and third gear is perceptibly less of a reach.
Now if I could only move the brake pedal 1/2" to the right...
My perception was that it really didn't slide into gear as well as it might have.
This weekend I had the console off to run an iPod cable, and I decided to relocate the shifter neutral position rearward and leftward. It's easy to do: move the left cable connector forward and the right cable connector back in relation to the shifter and it's done.
At first I thought I went too far. The shifter has a definite leftward slant. But the function is transformed! It feels more direct and feels like it slots into gear more smoothly. I know that's not literally possible, so the change in feel has to be from the altered ergonomics. The 1-2 shift is much closer to my leg now, and third gear is perceptibly less of a reach.
Now if I could only move the brake pedal 1/2" to the right...
09-18-2009, 01:31 AM
#2
Parts Specialist
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just get a wider pedal = moved 1/2" 
I also have the 997 shift assy and have really enjoyed it. Mine feels right to me - not sure where it sits in relation to the universe and all
I also have the 997 shift assy and have really enjoyed it. Mine feels right to me - not sure where it sits in relation to the universe and all
09-18-2009, 07:45 AM
#3
Addict
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Rennlist Member
I just bought a 997 shifter from a 997 forum member. I assumed that you put the jig on the old shifter before taking it it out, then, put it on the new one before seating it - to keep everything lined up. Right? Not sure why Jon's shifter wasn't shifting smoothly?
09-18-2009, 08:41 AM
#4
Race Car
Sounds like when I used to heat up the stalks of shifters cherry red and bend them left and aft so they get to a more comfortable, ergonomic position.
Way to go, Ill remember whenever I get another 996 or 997.
Way to go, Ill remember whenever I get another 996 or 997.
09-18-2009, 10:11 AM
#5
Weathergirl
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Thread Starter
Andy, I'm sure it was shifting as smoothly as it was designed to. It's not a Honda after all. The 997 shifter remedies problems and wear, but it doesn't change the gearbox internals.
If installing a new shifter, use the jig at first so you have a starting point. Once you see how the cables attach, you'll see how easy it is to move the attachments a few notches to get a different position, if you feel you want one.
If installing a new shifter, use the jig at first so you have a starting point. Once you see how the cables attach, you'll see how easy it is to move the attachments a few notches to get a different position, if you feel you want one.
