I have recently taken the gear stick off to get the **** alcantara'd.

After getting removing the gator and jacket it appears that the gear linkage sits quite high up the stick and then it reduces in size for the **** to sit on top.

I am keen to reduce the stick shift height by about 2 cms. Changing gear without the jacket and **** is so much more better and precise feeling because it is shorter.

What I would normally do is cut what was required off the top. However it seems that due to fitment of the **** this will cause problems as it tapers size at the top part. Has anyone tried this or is there a better way to get the short throw?

 

I have found what looks to be the short throw shift kit.

Not a simple case of sawing down existing stick lol.

http://www.snabb.us/04-07-R-Short-Th...er-_p_112.html


Looks like it is a fairly big job to install.

 

I've changed shifters on other cars without any trouble. Remove the shifter surround, remove a couple bolts and maybe a C-clip, pull out the old one, put in the new and put back the clips and bolts. I've never messed with that area of a Vantage, though.

It should be relatively easy to see how much trouble it will be... take out the shifter surround so you can see what is connected to it.

 

Hmmm. There doesnt seem to be any bolts visable. Will have another look.

 

I too have been wanting a better shifting experience from my Vantage. So I was excited to see your post. But after disassembling my center console, our shifter looks very different from the snabb unit. I took a few pictures. I assume since the Vantage has a Trasaxle thats why the linkage is different.

 

Yes, it's a transaxle with cables linking the shifter to the gearbox.

 

I was going to post up some pics but your ones are muchbetter.



There looks to be a possibility to remove the existing rod ,possible leaving the ball and cup in place and cutting out a cm from the middleand then getting it welding back together. Since it is hidden under the gearjacket you would not notice it and you would get a much better gear shift.



I am currently driving with my gear **** removed and Ireally enjoy the cms or 2 I have lost in gear changes. So much more precisionand satisfaction changing gears quickly.



Another option would be to cut the top of the gear rod butthen you are unable to attached the gear **** back in unless you use some kindof new bracket to attach the gearknob on top. Potentially drilling underneaththe gear diagram on the ****.