B&M Short Shift Kit- install

[R1STCARRERA]

Folks,

I am interested in the B&M Short Shift as my next mod on my 02- 996. According to B&M and their install instructions (which I read through) , this is a 1 hour plus job for someone that is competent with tools.

Out of curiosity, I called my local non-dealer Porsche service center and asked them how much they would charge to do the install. They quoted me 3 hours at $110 an hour. Thats a lot of dough for something the manufacturer suggests should take a little over an hour for a novice.

Now I am a bit confused. Either B&M is underestimationg the time and qualifications for DIY or this mechanic is out of their minds. For those of you who have done it, particularly as a DIY, can you set me straight here? Is it as easy as the manual and instructions suggest?

Thanks in advance

[Loren]

If you have done it before less than 1 hour.

Here are the latest instructions from B&M...

B_M_Short_Shifter_Install.pdf

[gchu]

Wow, that's great information. I've been heard great thing about the BM Shifter & I am planning to get one. Where is the best source?

[Hroussard]

Porsche's own short throw shifter seems to have a warning on it that states that the shifting with a cold engine may be difficult. It that the same with this B&M shifter kit?? If this is not the case I would be interested in "investing" in such a kit. I have been reading these threads and I am still seeing the same issue popping up regularly. What is the secret or is Porsche literature correct.?

HarryR C 2 1999

[Loren]

Yes, both are effective the same shifter. Yes, they are both a little stiffer when cold (below 40 degrees F).

Harry, how often does it get cold in Foster City? Once or twice a year? ;) ;)

[LVDell]

I just installed the B&M SSK and it took about 1 hour. ALso, this was my first B&M install. So confident now, that I would actually help somebody else if they needed the help. Paying the dealer $350 is insane.

I haven't noticed the "cold" shift problem, but then again I am in Vegas.

[Orient Express]

I installed mine in about an hour and a half last Sunday. It was very easy. The only thing that I would add to the B&M instructions is that you mark where the shift cables are positioned in the cable ends before you remove them. Also leave the transmission in neutral. Otherwise it is a very easy unbolt and bolt job. On a scale of 1-10 I give it a 3 (easy) as far as complexity.

[LVDell]

The hardest part is cutting those **** plastic tabs out that hold in the OEM shifter. I used a few 4-letter bombs during that one. The instructions make it sound like an exacto will just cut them away. Yeah right.

[wross996TT]

I had my B&M SSK installed by my mechanic (I hate tools) last week. It took 1 hr. with road test ($95). It works great. I have heard some threads where they suggest the shifting is "harder" than the stock. It may be due to installation or adjustment? All I know is mine works great. I personally think this should be stock (I know Porsche is looking for extra$$$). I love it!

[C4 Pazzo]

The hardest part is cutting those **** plastic tabs out that hold in the OEM shifter.  I used a few 4-letter bombs during that one.  The instructions make it sound like an exacto will just cut them away.  Yeah right.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Give each plastic tab a whack with a mallet using a large flathead screwdriver or chisel and they'll come out quickly (wear glasses, though. The tabs will go sailing.)

This is at most a couple of hours for a first time DIYer. Go for it. Just remember its a slippery slope to the next mod. And the next.....

[J9000]

One hour.. just follow the instructions. step by step. the hard part is to cut the old plastic rings. Put the new one in is a lot easier.

[LVDell]

Yup....I used my blade and a mallet to break all the tabs off.

[JoeA]

A also just did it last Sunday, came out great, although i didnt mark the cables :oops: but everything seems to have worked out as is. Definately give it a shot if your somewhat competent with tools. I totally agree with LVDell, those tabs stink to get out. Overall a great DIY and look at the other posts on this subject, follow the instructions, if you can print them out in color your better off.

By the way, I highly recommend becoming a contributing member of this site. You will get a wealth of knowledge, accessing the TSB's & save a load of $$$.

[gchu]

Who is interesting? Let's have a group buy for the B&M.

[Hroussard]

I would buy one at a price below 200 dollars.

HarryR C2 1999

[J9000]

I got mine for about $175 from this guy "trackhaus" (eBay). I am not sure if he still has some. Sometimes you can find great bargain from eBay.

[LVDell]

The going rate on eBay right now for a new one is $200-$250. You can get them at $199 every once in a while.

[gchu]

Does Porsche dealers carry it? I will try Sunset Porsche if they do.

[Loren]

Does Porsche dealers carry it?  I will try Sunset Porsche if they do.

Porsche retail is:

000 044 700 26 SHORT SHIFT KIT $486.89

[LVDell]

Some dealers carry both (B&M and Porsche).

[Hroussard]

Folks,

I just bought a B@M Shifter. Look at :

http://boostparts.com/bp/catalog/product_i...roducts_id/2480

Cost : $ 199.99

B&M Porsche Boxter 986 911 996 Shifter 45135

[45135] $199.99

Click to enlarge

B&M's Short Throw Manual Shifters for Porsche are CAD-designed and engineered direct bolt-in replacement shifters - the only tools needed to install it are simple hand tools! These shifters feature counter-balanced bottom ends for more precise shifts. Extremely tight tolerances make these shifters the smoothest, most accurate shifters available. And B&M offers you a lifetime warranty. If performance means everything to you, let B&M give you the edge!

Key features:

Engineered for Precision Shifts

Shift throw reduced for quicker shifts

416 Heat treated Stainless steel stick

CNC Machined aluminum carrier with bearings

CNC Machined aluminum pivots with nylon inserts

Direct bolt on installation

B&M #45135

35% Throw Reduction

Now I will need to get it installed and I have 2 left hands....anybody in the Bay area that wants to help / volonteer... the pizza and beer is on me of course..

:cheers:

[LVDell]

If you are in Vegas anytime soon I would be happy to help.

[Loren]

Folks,

Now I will need to get it installed and I have 2 left hands....anybody in the Bay area that wants to help / volonteer... the pizza and beer is on me of course..

:cheers:

Harry,

Just come to the next Work on Cars day I (or Jeff) will help you out.

[Hroussard]

Loren, Jeff, It's a deal but please let me know when that is going to take place, seems I miss too much of the fun. Cannot wait to stir the engine with that stick in the upcoming Autocross sessions in Candlestick Park in June.

[JoeA]

I got mine at Brandywine $199 + shipping. this was about 3 weeks ago, maybe they can still do the same deal.