T-5 Shifter question? Need some advice....

[Hans944]

I have a question about my Roadster's shifter.... I have a MkII built in 2002 with a T-5 transmission and the traditional shifter set up (rear mounted, angled). My shifter is a little bit too long for my taste. My shifter lever is about 12" long and in first gear, third and fifth gear is a little too close to my stereo. In fact, when shifting it a month ago, I hit the volume knob and knocked it off and it was gone due to the wind and high speeds.

Are there any short shifter levers available for the Cobra Roadster? Maybe a shifter lever that was 10" to 11" would work fine.

I have a 2001 Camaro Z-28 with a 6 speed T-56 and there are many short sticks available for it. In fact, I bought one I like for the Camaro.

By the way, I really like my Factory 5 Roadster! Awesome car! This forum helped convince me to buy the car a few months ago!

Thanks!

[edwardb]

Any idea what shifter you're using? Doesn't sound like the standard FFR supplied shifter. It's only 9-1/2 inches long including the shift knob. Just measured the one that came with my Mk4. Looks like this:

http://www.factoryfiveparts.com/shifter-kit/

Another option might be one from **********. I have this one. It's slightly longer than the FFR provided one, but still much shorter than the 12 inch one you're describing. They have a 20% off sale for a few days yet.

http://www.**********accessories.com/Cockpit-Interior_Cobra/shifter-ring-knob-handle?product_id=198

[michael everson]

The shift lever should be really easy to shorten. Cut an inch or 2 off of it then drill and tap the correct size hole in the end. Next buy a set screw the right diameter and screw it in leave enough to crew the ball back on. That's how I would do it. I have several shifter handles here if you screw it up.
Mike

[Steven K]

I was curious about this myself. I am putting in a center console and would like cup holders also, but it is a little tight.

[Hans944]

Thanks everyone for the advice. I have been considering a shifter lever from MGW for the T-5 transmission or the original style shifter lever from **********. I don't have the shop equipment to modify my original gear shift lever.

I'll try to post a picture here of my shifter lever. Hopefully, it works!2499624997

Thanks!!

[edwardb]

Yes, your pictures came through. Hard to tell exactly which shifter you have, but maybe the FFR one (?). But the real issue is that your center console really comes back far and at an angle. So the normal space clearly isn't available. If that is an FFR shifter, the ********** one isn't going to help. It's actually a little longer (about 1/2 inch) as I mentioned in an earlier post. Hopefully you can find something a bit shorter.

[skullandbones]

The shift lever should be really easy to shorten. Cut an inch or 2 off of it then drill and tap the correct size hole in the end. Next buy a set screw the right diameter and screw it in leave enough to crew the ball back on. That's how I would do it. I have several shifter handles here if you screw it up.
Mike

Michael's suggestion is good as it would allow you to shorten and then evaluate the result. I have one further suggestion. If the shorter shifter still is not at the right angle or feel you can have a machine or fabrication shop do a small bend in the shifter below the boot which could make all the difference. I would use a wire coat hanger or soft copper tube to make the perfect template to locate the shifter just where you want it. My fab shop charges a $30 dollar min which usually covers something this small. If you don't have that resource, find one because I'm sure you will have many tweeks that you will find to make the roadster your own. I have tried a short throw shifter from Summit and it just didn't feel right (too small). That's why I suggest this because there just aren't any bolt on solutions, at least, that I can find. Good luck, WEK.

[Jester]

Thanks everyone for the advice. I have been considering a shifter lever from MGW for the T-5 transmission or the original style shifter lever from **********. I don't have the shop equipment to modify my original gear shift lever.

I'll try to post a picture here of my shifter lever. Hopefully, it works!2499624997

Thanks!!

My FFR shifter was also quite close to my stereo and I replaced with a ********** T5 427 shifter. I have gained ~ 2 inches in additional clearance from the stereo plus the Finish Line 427 shifter is offset toward the driver ~ 2 inches and has the authentic look with the reverse lock out (reverse lock out is none functional). photos attached for reference - shifter in 1st gear.

Note the FFR shifter is in the approximate location although is placed towards the passenger side for reference

Very easy solution and very high quality ($85 regular price)

Not sure about comfort though as I just installed it - I need some seat time - I may modify the 427 shifter as per WEK's suggestion (cut 1-2 inches off below the boot)

2500425005

[mikiec]

You might want to look at this one from TriStates Motorsports.

http://tristatemotorsports.com/Results.cfm?Category=Drivetrain

Mike

[DVANSLEEN]

I turned the stock Mustang shifter around backward and it works fine. Free w/donor!

[Hans944]

Thanks to everyone for the good advice. I'll work on this issue and see what I can do based on these options you have recommended.

Thanks again!

Hans