I've had these 5 setups(stock, B&M, ebay B&M knock off, 997, 997 SSK) throughout my ownership.

The 997 SSK provides a more refined feel IMO and might be more important for the people that prefer a less notchy feel, otherwise, B&M will be just fine if shorter shifts are all that matters.

 

I prefer the 997 SSK over the B&M. I had the B&M for several years and was happy with it as it was a great improvement over stock, but I prefer the 997 SSK for the less notchy feel. Both shift very well, I just prefer the 997 SSK of the two.

 

I agree completely.

 

I haven't done any shifter upgrades yet, but for 996's, the regular 997 shift console seems like it has the best bang-for-the-buck.

Some 996 upgrade options, with appx. street prices:

• 997 Shift Console: $250
• 997 Shift Console, GT3 version with metal bushings: $430
• 997 SS (back to plastic bushings?): $429
• Numeric Racing shifter (fits under stock trim, adjustable height and throw, all metal): $700

Personally, I've read great reviews of the 997 non-ssk shifter as an upgrade, and if I wanted to go beyond that, I'd probably move right to the Numeric, which is an all-ball-bearing work of art compared to the Porsche shifters. And I think I'd rather have a stock 996 shifter than a B&M, certainly rather than a B&M clone.

Top-to-bottom, Cup Car, GT3, Numeric Racing:

 

Sorry to hijack the thread a bit, but I just took off a 997 SSK if anyone is interested just send me a PM. I'm going full racecar and replaced it with a numeric with cup car cables. $150.

 

Depending on one's priorities.

Best overall feel with shorter shifts not really being important - 997
Best bang for buck for strictly shorter throws - eBay B&M knock off
Most refined feel and shorter throws - 997 ssk

My advice is if you've always had ssk in your previous cars and are accustom to short throws, I don't think you'd be happy with the 997.

If you've never had ssk in previous cars, you might be ok with the regular 997.

 

Now that's a smokin' deal !

IMHO I'd say the 997 - GT3 version is the "Most refined feel and shorter throws." I replaced the 997 SSK in my car with the GT3 version and it was a very nice improvement in terms of smooth shifting while retaining short throws. I'm of the mind that each cars is somewhat different with results of replacing shifters. Maybe it's the type of gear oil and fine tuning the adjustment that can make a significant change in the feel and notchiness.
YMMV

 

I totally agree with the "fine" adjustments. Just fine tuning your cable settings can have a noticeable impact on the shifting feel. Especially the transition going from cold to warm.

Hmmm, now you have me tempted to try this out. The GT3 version came out in 2010 when I'd already done my final shifter upgrade so didn't really think anything of it or even knew it was compatible with the 996.

If my understanding is correct, one of the main differences is the GT3 has metal bearings replacing the plastic ones found on the 997/997 ssk models.

Rather than buy a whole new shifter AGAIN, I'm tempted to fab up some bushings or take apart an eBay one to start with and see if that makes any difference. Hmmmm.....

 

I use the expensive GT3 short shifter w/metal bushings in my 99' 996 race car. I had the B & M short shifter in my 06' 997 race car. Both make a huge improvement in the shiftability of the cars over the POC OEM units. For me personally, I'm more trusting and comfortable with the GT3 shifter.

 

I am saving pennies for a Numeric!! they are so beautiful and look like they will last longer than the car!

 

Hey Alpy, so you think the stock 997 is that much better than the stock 996 to warrant the purchase? Just for street use, mind you, not the track. The stock 996 just doesnt feel "precise" enough for me.

 

yes. Not as advanced as alpine but got 3 set ups (stock 996, B&M, stock 997) and currently running the stock 997. it gives you ~15% reduction in throws and better feel.

by the way my B&M shifter (with base console) is available for sale

 

I would say the stock 997 is marginally better than the stock 996 if your priority is both shorter throws AND feel. If a better feel is what matters the most though, the stock 997 can fit the bill quite nicely. Dunno personally if I would pay full price for one though but it's a good mod if you can find one used. My $.02

 

I'm pretty certain this is sold. If not, I have a half dozen back up buyers.

 

I personally thought it was a significant improvement. It could be because my car had a 100k miles. It is so much more precise. Only about a 15-20 percent shorter shift. However, the precision makes up for it.