I have an 06 MCS and was interested in getting a short shifter. I know most SS kits will reduce the length of the shifts and some are height adjustable but I wanted to know if any of the kits (ie Alta, Craven, B&M, etc) make the shifts smoother (ie less effort)?
TIA

 

Since you're moving the fulcrum farther up on the stick, and shortening the throw, there is going to be more effort involved. I have an '02, and just put in the Alta, and to be honest man, save your money. At least, do some research and use it on another brand. I'm completely disappointed with the money I spent on this. There is a post on here that I started called Short Shift Kit disappointment actually. In the 1st gen cooper S drivetrain section. check it out, there's some good info from other people in there. late.

 

I have an 02 and installed the Craven's speed. It is by far one of the THE best mods I have done. The feel is very close to stock, smooth and easy to shift. I actualy was thinking that the throw would be harder/rougher but it's not and the coolest thing about it, you can adjust the height with just a turnnig of a *** that is located at the buttom of the SS rod just sitting at the red lilght. It feels almost factory but still has that racy feel about it with the shorter throw.

You will be very very glad to have gotten Craven speed.

 

if you add a heavier **** it'll be a little smoother also. the whalen comes to mind. i run with a razo that's 330g and i have no problems getting my alta SSK into gear

 

And if you want smooth response add an engine torque damper to limit movement. The stock mounts are so soft the engine moves around a LOT and with it the cables move, which screws with you trying to shift.

I have a Helix shaft extension and it works OK. Reduced throw quite a bit, but I'd also prefer some harder bushings for the housing.

 

That's why I haven't gotten a SS kit yet. The stock shifter is a bit notchy but it's fairly crisp and not vague. When I added a Whalen ****, effort reduced but vagueness increased. It felt like things just got a bit sloppy with all that weight on top. For performance reasons, it's better to have the shifter close to the steering wheel. I want to keep the shifter around stock height (or higher). This leaves the Helix-style or to machine an extension for the Alta or Cravenspeed like onasled did. I don't believe any of these kits include solid bushings either.

I've heard about engine dampers and poly transmission bushings helping with shift quality as well. The cost of these things add up quickly.

 

Do you happen to have pics of your razo? I have one also (stock shifter) But i'm looking at a short shifter and want a new ****. I've had Razo ***** on all my cars. lol

 

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