As the thread states, is a r53 short shifter compatible with a r56?

 

No, I could possibly be wrong, but I had a R53 short shifter that would not even fit a facelift R53(2005).

 

Depends on which year R53--05/06 with the new shift box (black under the shift boot) will fit. 04 and prior has a smaller diameter shift rod.

 

I respectfully disagree. While the main ball is the same size on the facelift and the R56, the sockets where the cables attach are not the same.

 

I don't know where you get your logic!!! If the ball is the same size then the sockets will be the same size--only one of the cables is affected by the short shifter. FYI, if you look up the Helix short shifter, you will see that there is one for 02-03 and one for 04 to current----http://www.detroittuned.com/helix-short-shifter/

 

Its not a question of logic. The shifter has to manipulate both cables, you are correct that both do not plug directly into the shifter, but the shifter has to attach the arm that manipulates the other. The 04-06 shifter will not fit the bushing on that arm for the 07-13 shifter.

As noted; The Helix adapter will fit all of those years; because the bushing in question is not affected.

Just trying to help.