| Author | Message | ||
| Mike Procopio (Pupz308)
Junior Member Username: Pupz308 Post Number: 133 Registered: 10-2002 |
After having Paul's slickshift gate AL shift knob for a couple of weeks now, thought I'd let you all know how it went. The install was no problem, and instructions are provided as well if needed. First, the shift knob totally changes your interaction with the car... You know how they say driving a Ferrari is a dialog? We'll, it is, but it was hard for the car to talk back to you with the tiny black shift know. With the old shift knob, I shifted with my fingers; with this new know, I can shift with my HAND. I really feel the road, and have much more control over the shifter. This is reversible in 2 minutes. Keep your old knob, of course. And avoid rotational force (e.g. torquing) the shift lever itself when tightening the nut at the knob, as is pointed out in the directions. The shift gate is nice, too. It is very well made. It does have a different *sound* to it--it's more of a "clack" than a "clink" or a "clank," if you know what I mean (and you probably do). Yes, shifting is quicker. But, you'll never be able to just rip the car into any gear--at least not mine. I can tell just how fast the 308 wants to be shifted. I find that the gate lets me engage the 2nd and 4th (or 1st and 3rd on the downshift) synchros quicker, though. Then the car lets me know when it's ready to go into gear. So, in summary. Getting the gate and knob (any quality gate and knob) is a nice upgrade. It's reversible. The knob totally changes the way you talk with the car. The gate will allow for faster shifts, and less mental focus on navigating the lever, but is not an excuse to powershift or do something the gearbox wasn't designed to accomodate. I'm pleased. Only problem is figuring out what to do with the old black shift ball... Thinking a necklace might be nice. Or, a mallet for a bell set or xylophone, maybe... Or a really expensive golf ball (really easy to tee up!). Or... Maybe I'll just keep it in a drawer for now. | ||
| Dave Penhale (Dapper)
Member Username: Dapper Post Number: 561 Registered: 4-2002 |
Hans, Don't fall into the trap of thinking that because an 'oil' analysis showed almost no metallic contaminants, that there wasn't much. Spectrometric Oil analysis techniques are particle size limited, particles more than typically 8 microns linear will not show in results. These processes are designed to analyse primarily the oil, rather than 'significantly' sized particulates within it. | ||
| philip (Fanatic1)
New member Username: Fanatic1 Post Number: 3 Registered: 2-2003 |
I just wanted to say that although I don't know much about the "gates". I did order a Polished Aluminum shift knob from TEAM VOODOO.........it fit perfectly, the threads matched and it was only 40.00 with the 5 speed shift pattern engraved on top......it looks so much better than my black and white plastic ball. | ||
| EFWUN (Efwun)
New member Username: Efwun Post Number: 35 Registered: 2-2003 |
Those relieved gates are beautiful, but part of the fun is accomplishing the task as Ferrari laid it out. I've actually found that double-clutching the 1-2 upshift and allowing the shifter a fraction of a second to "pop" into the slot beneath 2nd while doing the double-clutch actually results in a quicker shift. I know this is counter-intuitive, but seems to work. Plus, this isn't an old time Atlantic FT-200 Hewland or something, where you just tensioned the shifter under full throttle, then "breathed" the gas for an instant and banged the shift without the clutch! Almost hurts to treat one of these cars like that. | ||
| Paul Hill (348paul)
Junior Member Username: 348paul Post Number: 63 Registered: 12-2002 |
Matt, No argument to be argued - I am only just passing on information from Ferrari UK Technical. Call Maranello Technical and talk to Paul - You can also speak to Keith in the parts department - he is the one taking the photograph. As I said, there is no new number. The part has had a revision and what I was told was that all the gates that leave Italy have the angles on them. The only way you would get one without is if someone had old stock. Part number 148452 Paul | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Intermediate Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 2417 Registered: 8-2002 |
Paul, Not splitting hairs or trying to cause an arguement but.... I would be intrested to hear to whom you spoke with and the revised part number. And yes, the old gate is still available. Call 818.884.4411 which is the Auto Gallary's phone number and ask for the parts department. The gates would NOT be old stock. Fresh from the Factory. | ||
| Paul Hill (348paul)
Junior Member Username: 348paul Post Number: 60 Registered: 12-2002 |
I have done a bit more research into what Mike said regarding the Ferrari replacement gates �(regarding that they have the modifications already on them) About a week ago, I had a lengthy discussion with a technical rep at Maranello here in the UK regarding the 5-speed gate. I was told that Ferrari made a design change to the gate back in 1994 � Still the same part number, but up issued. The design change was the addition of 4 angles on the ends of the 4 prongs on the gate. This was done to aid a smoother gearshift. They told me that unless someone had old stock you could not get the old style gate anymore. Ferrari UK did not have a gate in stock but are getting one in, and when they receive it they are going to photograph it for me. I will post the picture here when I receive it. Jim � Thanks for the feedback - I�m pleased that you like it! Paul | ||
| John Whelan (Fodee)
New member Username: Fodee Post Number: 35 Registered: 10-2001 |
I had a bunch of them made out of Titanium. We are about to run the second batch. If you are interested they are $225. We also made some F40 steering wheel adapters (to replace the collapsible hub). Post a note if you are interested. The shift gates are for the five speed. | ||
| James Glickenhaus (Napolis)
Member Username: Napolis Post Number: 633 Registered: 10-2002 |
Joe I agree Best Jim | ||
| joe saldana (Ironjoe)
Junior Member Username: Ironjoe Post Number: 148 Registered: 12-2001 |
Interesting thread,but in 308 trannys 2nd gear is like most cars 1st, cause its the actual common loaded,(abused by natural footwork) plus If I remember correctly these trannys use helical gears with Porsche designed synchromesh on roller bearings.I personally like the challenge and precision of who can pull the gun out of the holster faster....Leave Mods to Modern cars..... | ||
| Jim DeRespino (Jimbo)
Junior Member Username: Jimbo Post Number: 57 Registered: 10-2001 |
Paul: The fit and finish on the Aluminum shift ball is phenomenal, and it arrived in 6 days from the UK. The larger size feels much better than the standard 512TR knob. Many thanks. ...Jim | ||
| Paul Hill (348paul)
Junior Member Username: 348paul Post Number: 51 Registered: 12-2002 |
Matt � Thank you. Peter, The standard design is on the left but we do carry stock of the "bossless" type (on right) for people who do not like the spigot on the end. Thanks Paul  | ||
| Mike Charness (Mcharness)
Junior Member Username: Mcharness Post Number: 229 Registered: 8-2002 |
Peter, check out the $39 aluminum shift knob (or $130 for titanium) several of us have gotten from Team Voodoo www.TeamVoodoo.com/Voodoo/Featured.html That's my car in the photo (I provided the initial specifications). Plain sphere in 355/360 diameter, but will fit your Mondial. | ||
| Peter Polasek (Peterp)
New member Username: Peterp Post Number: 47 Registered: 8-2002 |
Paul, Can you indicate whether or not your shift knob has a lip on the bottom (near the threads) -- it's difficult to tell from the website photos. Thanks. | ||
| Jim DeRespino (Jimbo)
Junior Member Username: Jimbo Post Number: 56 Registered: 10-2001 |
Unbelievable! I just wanted to show a photo of my modified shift gate and before you know it we are 56 posts later discussing the molecular composition of synchros. Is FerrariChat great or what? | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Intermediate Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 2110 Registered: 8-2002 |
Paul, No disrespect intended. Let's agree to disagree on the issue. I do agree, that a weighted shift ball does help shifting. I wish you and your company all the best. Matt | ||
| Paul Hill (348paul)
New member Username: 348paul Post Number: 50 Registered: 12-2002 |
I believe this conversation is starting to become dishonourable and would like to decline in any more conversation. I believe there is enough information here and on our website for people to make up their own minds. I totally respect Matt�s views and comments and have to the best of my ability responded with factual, genuine, and practical responses. One last comment: Thanks to everyone who has commented (good & indifferent!) on this thread. It has been very gratifying to hear all of your views. Time is late here & bid you all goodnight. Paul | ||
| Jean-Louis (Jlm348)
Member Username: Jlm348 Post Number: 324 Registered: 11-2002 |
Matt your right my 94 was actually built 2-93 | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Intermediate Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 2108 Registered: 8-2002 |
JL, they stopped building them in 1994. They were still sold as 1995 cars. | ||
| Jean-Louis (Jlm348)
Member Username: Jlm348 Post Number: 323 Registered: 11-2002 |
Matt, Just to correct you the 348 ended in 1995. | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Intermediate Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 2107 Registered: 8-2002 |
And Paul, Before you post "if it works on a 6 then it shoud work an a 5" save your fingers. The six is layout differently on the inside then the 5. The six came out in 1995 where as the 5 we have been discussing, was in use from 1975 on the 308gt4 up until the 348 ended it's run in 1994 | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Intermediate Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 2105 Registered: 8-2002 |
Geez, Look at Ferrari's gate compared to the aftermarket one from Titanium Cavallino and the pic on the first thread. Besides, Your pic is of a 6 speed, we are discussing 5 speeds. | ||
| Paul Hill (348paul)
New member Username: 348paul Post Number: 49 Registered: 12-2002 |
So Ferrari must have got it wrong on the F355 then! (Original gate)  | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Intermediate Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 2103 Registered: 8-2002 |
So you are cutting down the angle and increasing the angle of the shift fork to a angle it was not designed for? I am not splitting hairs but it seems useless. The gate and transmissions were designed to travel at right angles has in a H, not in a elongated s | ||
| Paul Hill (348paul)
New member Username: 348paul Post Number: 48 Registered: 12-2002 |
Matt, This is why.  | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Intermediate Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 2102 Registered: 8-2002 |
If it's so small, why do it? | ||
| Paul Hill (348paul)
New member Username: 348paul Post Number: 47 Registered: 12-2002 |
The attached picture is as overlay of the original gate profile and the slick shift gate. Matt, Just a few comments � The shift gate that we make has a maximum of only 1.7mm difference in gate profile compared to the original (see picture) This extra amount of possible movement converts to less that 0.4mm of travel in the linkage of the gearbox control assy. This is due to the pivot position of the gear shift with relationship to the shift gate and the connection on the bottom of the control assy. Bearing in mind there is 0.5mm clearance in the bolt holes for the clevises on the translator assembly, any extra movement caused by the slick shift gate is all taken up by the linkage & translator assembly even before it has got to the internals of the gearbox. Paul  | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Intermediate Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 2096 Registered: 8-2002 |
Good news! When you coming back to So Cal? | ||
| Hans E. Hansen (4re_gt4)
Member Username: 4re_gt4 Post Number: 867 Registered: 4-2002 |
Yeah, Matt, I agree. 1st is sort of like the granny gear in a truck. Just to get it moving. Noise? Still not sure, but I had the oil analyzed, and there was almost no metal contamination. Considerably below what is usually seen typically. (I did have some fuel contaminztion, tho. Damn worn out carbs!) So probably isn't anything serious. It's due for a valve adjustment, and my mechanic is betting he'll see the reason for the noise when the cam covers come off. He thinks a shim is cupped or deformed. | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Intermediate Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 2091 Registered: 8-2002 |
John, If you keep them lubed and adjusted and master the stock gate, the transmission will last for many years and/or decades. If I got a car with the modified gate...I would change it. It does no good. The reason for the Ferrari pattern on the 5 speed cars is that in racing, r is rarely used and 1 is for getting under way. At speed the driver uses 2,3,4 and 5. Hence the current pattern. because of this, the sync rings take a beating and should not be used until the car is warm and even then should be take with care. Ferrari road cars when raced should be started slowly in 1st and then shifted to 2 and then gunned. | ||
| john beaucher (Spider348)
New member Username: Spider348 Post Number: 32 Registered: 11-2002 |
Matt, Thank you for the lesson. I must admit I understood part of the F1 appeal was the computer driven ability to produce optimal gear changes etc. I would have thought the result would have been extended syncro and clutch life. Appears the opposite is true. A clutch every 5~10k miles is quite service intensive. Your observation that the beneficiary to all this is the service department is well stated. | ||
| Paul Hill (348paul)
New member Username: 348paul Post Number: 46 Registered: 12-2002 |
I think the term is "floating syncro ring" - Usually made from Aluminium Bronze - like the selector forks. Paul | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Intermediate Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 2090 Registered: 8-2002 |
Hans, I been hitting the sauce and I spoke in general again. I was thinking rings but I wrote synco. BTW - what was that sound in your engine? | ||
| Hans E. Hansen (4re_gt4)
Member Username: 4re_gt4 Post Number: 865 Registered: 4-2002 |
Matt: I believe all syncros are brass. I'm talking about the syncronizing rings, as the rest is steel. I've only seen photos of the innards of a V8 Fcar tranny, but the syncro assy looks the same as any other that I've seen, just probably a little smaller. | ||
| Paul Hill (348paul)
New member Username: 348paul Post Number: 45 Registered: 12-2002 |
Philip, The 1-2 shift should be as easy as the 3-4 shift. What I have noticed, especially with the 348 is that the shift cable linkage might need re-aligning. There was another thread that I gave a description on how to do it. (Pictures as well). http://www.ferrarichat.com/discus/messages/21/202336.html?1044590086 Charles had the same problem and after the adjustment he thought it made a huge difference. Cheers Paul | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Intermediate Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 2088 Registered: 8-2002 |
"My understanding is the F1 box is the standard 6 speed box. Same gears, synchros etc. Please advise if I am incorrect and what specific differences exist." They are the same box but the F-1 is a different beast. The f-1 is programmed to shift up and down at the correct points when the transmission is able to make those shifts without damage to the box. Rather then leaving it up to the drives since of touch. F-1's are prone to clutch wear that requires replacement usually about 5k - 10K costing a few thousand dollars. They are also problematic with a 3rd gear hum and other issues documented here and else where. Each has it's downside. "I define speed shift as simply shifting the gearbox quickly. My limited knowledge defines a power shift as a lightning quick shift without, or sidestepping, the clutch. Such as on a track prepared motorcycle. In my, again limited, experience with Corvettes, Porsches, NSX etc. They will allow spirited shifts for many more miles than a Ferrari." Correct. "Thank you I have no desire to do burn-outs, 0~70 speed runs etc in my 348. I enjoy the Ferraris more intrinsic values. Also, cost prohibitive." Don't get me wrong, I drive my 308 everyday and when the 512 is not in the shop, I drive that as well. These cars will $100 and $500 dollar to you to death. "As to Ferrari using different alloys etc. If the resultant transmission is more fragile, how is this a benefit?" It's a benefit for the service department. The syncros are not steel or aluminium. I believe they are brass (I cannot remember specifically) I am not sure why or the history of this. I am sure someone else here can be more specific. | ||
| Philip (Phil_good)
New member Username: Phil_good Post Number: 12 Registered: 12-2002 |
Could not wait any longer and got the "slick shift" installed before the WE (straightforward, no issue). After a long ride I have mix feelings. Not a breakthrough. The shift between 3rd and 4th is faster but from 1st to 2nd it remains a pain like before. Despite the price I think I will buy the knob for its great look. Paul, let us know when you start your clearance sale!!!! | ||
| john beaucher (Spider348)
New member Username: Spider348 Post Number: 31 Registered: 11-2002 |
Matt, My understanding is the F1 box is the standard 6 speed box. Same gears, synchros etc. Please advise if I am incorrect and what specific differences exist. I define speed shift as simply shifting the gearbox quickly. My limited knowledge defines a power shift as a lightning quick shift without, or sidestepping, the clutch. Such as on a track prepared motorcycle. In my, again limited, experience with Corvettes, Porsches, NSX etc. They will allow spirited shifts for many more miles than a Ferrari. Thank you I have no desire to do burn-outs, 0~70 speed runs etc in my 348. I enjoy the Ferraris more intrinsic values. Also, cost prohibitive. As to Ferrari using different alloys etc. If the resultant transmission is more fragile, how is this a benefit? Regards, John | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Intermediate Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 2086 Registered: 8-2002 |
John, Apples (f-1) to Oranges (5 or 6 speed). The f-1 may use a standard box but they are different. And no, You cannot power shift a Z06 or really any car for that matter, without doing some sort of damage. As a test, do a 0-70 drive in your car and Powershift. Let us know what happens to your f-car. Ferrari transmissions use different alloy's for the syncros then other manufactures. Hence, the are more fragile then the 1/4 mile drag cars you think the Ferrari is. | ||
| john beaucher (Spider348)
New member Username: Spider348 Post Number: 30 Registered: 11-2002 |
Hans, You are correct. Owned a C4 and a '64 coupe. Great cars. Ferrari transmissions appear vulnerable at relatively low miles. My personal experiences are with a 308(50k miles, tired 2nd gear synchro) TR(38k miles, no issues) and my current 348 spider(45k miles, no issues, 2nd a little cranky cold) but we have all heard about the 20k mile cars with issues etc. Perhaps it is a driver quality issue. Don't know. | ||
| Hans E. Hansen (4re_gt4)
Member Username: 4re_gt4 Post Number: 863 Registered: 4-2002 |
John: As a Corvette guy, I can tell you that you can't speed shift a Z06 w/o issues. Try driving one that has 10K or 20K of real hard use. All of my old Corvettes ended up with 2nd gears that were very difficult to engage. (Hammering that 1-2 shift is real fun, tho) | ||
| john beaucher (Spider348)
New member Username: Spider348 Post Number: 29 Registered: 11-2002 |
Theoretically should not be possible to beat the transmission by speed shifting. The current F1 transmission is a standard manual transmission that speed shifts every shift. In performance mode, my understanding, the shifts are as fast as a profesional driver can shift. Perhaps a better question is why does speed shifting a Ferrari damage the transmission yet your local Chevy dealer can sell you a 405hp Z06 that can be speed shifted without issue? I understand a low volume manufacturer having an issue with the 1st generation design, ie.308. Ferrari has had 2nd gear issues with 308, 328, 348. 355? 360? Maybe the engineers have corrected the design problem after 30 years. | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Intermediate Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 2075 Registered: 8-2002 |
Jim, As long as you are not slamming gears you could be fine. Ferrari's have a reputation for blowing the synch rings in the transmissions. By installing the modified gate, it could allow you to beat the transmission. I would be extra careful on the high speed "show off" shifts. Just because it is a Ferrari does not mean it is indestructible. In fact, it is almost always the reverse. It's another way to take money to "improve" a car that was designed for the standard slots, not the cut gears. If it offered an advantage, Ferrari would sell them. | ||
| Charles Barton (Airbarton)
Member Username: Airbarton Post Number: 256 Registered: 11-2002 |
Paul I stand corrected! My wife got these for me for Christmas and told me they were made out of titianium so I just took her word for it. Either way they are a nice addition to the car. Thanks for the info! | ||
| Jim DeRespino (Jimbo)
Junior Member Username: Jimbo Post Number: 55 Registered: 10-2001 |
Paul: Thanks for the info. I just ordered my engraved shift ball. Of course it won't be "stock"..... | ||
| Jim DeRespino (Jimbo)
Junior Member Username: Jimbo Post Number: 54 Registered: 10-2001 |
Matt: Am I really ruining my transmission by speed shifting the 512? When I got the car 2 years ago it had been run only 12K miles in the first 7 years of its existence. Brakes squeaked, the plugs were fouled and oil leaked from unlubricated seals. It now has 27K miles and runs much better. It seems to like being driven hard (but not abused). I don't slam the gears, but I'm not gentle either - should I be taking it easy...? | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Intermediate Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 2068 Registered: 8-2002 |
Jim, I was referring to the fact that F-car boxes should not be speedshifted unless you have 5k burning a whole in your pocket | ||
| Paul Hill (348paul)
New member Username: 348paul Post Number: 44 Registered: 12-2002 |
Jim, Both the Type 1 (plain) and Type 2 (Engraved) will fit on your 512TR - They are in stock and can be purchased on line via the website. FYI - the 512TR/M gates are being made at the moment. These will be known as the "Type 3" gate. On the subject of titanium we do manufacture these but we also do no list them on the web site. They work out at �74.95 each for the 50mm diameter 5 speed engraved and also the 47mm F355 - 6 speed. These are a quite expensive as gear knobs go, and obviously not everyone�s cup of tea! - I must dig out the picture of the 24ct Gold Plated Gate & Knob that we done as a special!! Cheers Paul | ||
| Jim DeRespino (Jimbo)
Junior Member Username: Jimbo Post Number: 53 Registered: 10-2001 |
I went to Hill Engineering and TeamVoodoo (I love the Pollo Rampante!) but did not see a shift gate for the 512TR (4 attachment screws). Will the polished shift balls from either site fit on the 512 shift lever (ie, are the threads the same)? I want one now... Mr. Doody: To each his own. I hate the noise and prefer to listen to the song of the ferrari 12 cylinder as I drive, besides this is a reversible modification that can easily be put back to "stock". Matt: Did Enzo like catalytic converters, 'cause mine are gone. Would Enzo have liked Xenon driving lights that make his vehicles safer to drive? How about full synthetic motor oil? Have I stained the F-car soul with non-original fluid? I think Enzo would bless any changes that made his creations faster, safer or more fun to drive. A Ferrari is meant to be driven. Thanks for all the feedback and info, gentlemen. | ||
| Matt Lemus (Mlemus)
Intermediate Member Username: Mlemus Post Number: 2000 Registered: 8-2002 |
Call me a purest but the gate is not has Enzo planned. The joy of driving the f-cars is to master the gate. This just seems to make it more Honda like. | ||
| Mike Charness (Mcharness)
Junior Member Username: Mcharness Post Number: 226 Registered: 8-2002 |
www.teamvoodoo.com has Ferrari knobs in both standard and "magnum" sizes (47mm and 50.8mm), but the "magnum" size is just on request. $40 plus shipping for their standard 5-speed engraved knob. They *do* have titanium available for Ferraris also, though it's not highlighted at their site. $130 for 47mm titanium with engraved shift pattern, compared to $199 for similar knob from titaniumcavallino. I have a 47mm aluminum on mine. Well, I did until a couple of days ago when I put on the prototype carbon fiber covered knob -- that's a beauty! Jim -- we're considering doing shift gates in carbon fiber to match the new knobs. | ||
| Paul Hill (348paul)
New member Username: 348paul Post Number: 42 Registered: 12-2002 |
Frank, 50mm seemed like a good place to start! - I suppose it fits quite nicely into the ball of your hand. Funny thing is that the 355 knob is 47mm in diameter and even only 3mm smaller it looks and feels more like 7-8mm smaller! We originally done the 355 - 6 speed knob in a 50 mm diameter but were getting asked more often for the same size of the original 355 Ferrari knob. | ||
| Frank Terhaar-Yonkers (Fty)
New member Username: Fty Post Number: 6 Registered: 7-2001 |
Paul, I'm curious as to how you choose the size of the shift knob. - Frank | ||
| Paul Hill (348paul)
New member Username: 348paul Post Number: 40 Registered: 12-2002 |
Jim � You can find the link by clicking on my name on the left. I have a collection of original gates from 308, 328, 348, 355, 512TR & M, 246 and they were all plated. Interesting point about the stainless - 304 is a generally non magnetic (unless it has been cold rolled) and should not attract a magnet � the 400 series that have no nickel in them are magnetic � Like your knives & forks etc. Good point about the lubrication - Molybdenum Disulphide (Moly) or Graphite grease is the best to use in this circumstance. Paul | ||
| Ron Shirley (Easy_rider)
Junior Member Username: Easy_rider Post Number: 149 Registered: 12-2002 |
Jim, here is a link to his website. http://www.hill-engineering.co.uk/ Click on the ferrari parts button at the bottom right. I just ordered the gate a couple of days ago. It should be enroute now. | ||
| Mr. Doody (Doody)
Member Username: Doody Post Number: 759 Registered: 11-2001 |
Now I'm a shifting fool - smooth, quick and no annoying noise Sacrilege! That "annoying noise" is part and parcel of the F-car soul! It's hardly annoying! It's like a Mozart sonata! Well, that's just my opinion. I love the noises you get from the gated shifter. Doody! | ||
| Jim DeRespino (Jimbo)
Junior Member Username: Jimbo Post Number: 52 Registered: 10-2001 |
I can't find Hill Engineering. Can someone direct me without offending the delicate regulations of chat-world? | ||
| Jim DeRespino (Jimbo)
Junior Member Username: Jimbo Post Number: 51 Registered: 10-2001 |
OK, who makes the "slick shift" knobs and gates. We're not talking about the "Titanium Cavallino" items are we? Both of them cost $615.90 for my car, a bit over the top IMHO. I didn't notice any plating on my shift gate when I modified it. The ground area had the same appearance when finished as the rest of the item, and its magnetic properties seemed somewhere between plain steel and some 304 stainless I have lying around. Have all ferrari shift gates been manufactured from the same material since time began? I think I'll coat the edges with a little lubricant and see how it holds up. I can always plate it in the future if the need arises, and besides, the shifter arm doesn't hit anymore so wear should be minimal. | ||
| Mike Procopio (Pupz308)
Junior Member Username: Pupz308 Post Number: 94 Registered: 10-2002 |
Paul, Advertisers whose posts also serve in a "technical support / product information" capacity are more then welcome, as the entire community can benefit from this. These discussions are sort of like putting your product on trial, where the results and conclusions will be seen by many! | ||
| Mike Procopio (Pupz308)
Junior Member Username: Pupz308 Post Number: 93 Registered: 10-2002 |
I, too, just received my slick-shift gate and knob today. Very pleased with build quality and overall finish. I'll post results over the weekend. The knob was heavier than I expected, which is a nice plus actually. A nice solid piece of AL. The gate is machined (not cast) from steel, and the top has been finished very nicely. Note that the modifications made on the slick-shift gate, as compared to the original, are not as extreme as the manual job Jim D has made on his gate. I think there is a compromise between a true "diagonal" shift vs. a true "straight across" shift, and that Paul's gate (Hill Engineering, the one I and others have bought) is designed somewhere in the middle. I believe that problems can surface at the tranny gears unless a shift pattern fairly true to original is maintained. | ||
| Paul Hill (348paul)
New member Username: 348paul Post Number: 39 Registered: 12-2002 |
The problem with making them out of Aluminium would be the strength of it and its wear problems. I too think they would look lovely but would wear away the edge of the gates quite quickly. Matt: The original gates are made from a steel investment casting. They are then case hardened to give it a harder wearing surface whist the core remains tough. The nickel chrome plating acts as a protective finish. (Chrome is actually porous & it is the nickel that actually gives the protection. The chrome is like a �clear coat� for the nickel plate and gives it the blue tinge that you see rather that the yellow tinge that you get with nickel. Charles: The slick shift gate is actually made from a steel billet that has been case hardened and then �satin nickel chromed�. The gear knob is from 6082 Aluminium that has been polished to a mirror finish and then given some protection by using �Peak� polish. I am not sure who has clicked yet � I have to respect the board�s policy on self-advertising! I think Philip has found me out!! Paul | ||
| Philip (Phil_good)
New member Username: Phil_good Post Number: 11 Registered: 12-2002 |
Paul, ready for an additional discount on the knob for F chatters ? | ||
| Jim E (Jimpo1)
Intermediate Member Username: Jimpo1 Post Number: 1311 Registered: 7-2001 |
Somebody should start making these gates out of polished aluminum like they did the shift knobs. I bought one of the knobs for $40 and I love it. I'd buy an aluminum gate too. Mike Charness, call your fabricating buddy! | ||
| Charles Barton (Airbarton)
Junior Member Username: Airbarton Post Number: 250 Registered: 11-2002 |
Yea it's not cheap but it sure does look good don't you think! | ||
| Philip (Phil_good)
New member Username: Phil_good Post Number: 10 Registered: 12-2002 |
Got my "Slick Shift" delivered yesterday. Will install over the week-end and let you know. Personnaly find the knob a bit expensive... | ||
| Charles Barton (Airbarton)
Junior Member Username: Airbarton Post Number: 239 Registered: 11-2002 |
Matt , I put the "Slick Shift" gate on my car which is the same thing. It makes only a minor difference but it does shift better. It also looks better because of the allen head screws. It is also made of titainium so it will not rust. If you really want to spruce things up add the titainium shift knob as well. Here is what it all looks like.   | ||
| Matt Morgan (Kermit)
Junior Member Username: Kermit Post Number: 105 Registered: 8-2001 |
Personally I do not believe they are hardened.Rechroming is important as wear protection. In noting a claim seen some time ago on their site, do you really get .5 seconds per shift faster? | ||
| Paul Hill (348paul)
New member Username: 348paul Post Number: 38 Registered: 12-2002 |
Jim The only problem is that you have removed the chrome plating and gone through the hardened surface. This will expose the soft mild steel that will be vulnerable to wear and going rusty. Only an observation to a possible problem. Best Paul | ||
| Tazio Nuvolari (Nuvolari)
Junior Member Username: Nuvolari Post Number: 130 Registered: 9-2002 |
Well done Jim my only recommendation is to either lubricate the area you ground or have the plate re-chromed as the adjusted sections may rust (I am assuming the plate is chromed steel) over time. Giving the plate to any chroming shop should not cost you more than $20-$30 cash. The only thing is DO NOT tell them it is for a Ferrari. I always tell tradespeople that my parts are for a Ford or something because people see dollar signs when they hear the magical F-word. On another note, call me impractical, but I like the click of the shifter between gear changes. There is something cool about it for me and I could not wait to get my first F-car just to hear it. | ||
| Jim DeRespino (Jimbo)
New member Username: Jimbo Post Number: 50 Registered: 10-2001 |
 I saw this modification to the shiftgate at www.titaniumcavallino.com/ferrari/ and thought it seemed so logical and practical. Of course, their piece costs $379.95. I bought a "Tungsten Carbide Cutter" bit (#9901)for my Dremel tool at Loewe's for about $5.00 and trimmed the plate on my 512TR in 25 minutes, start to finish. Now I'm a shifting fool - smooth, quick and no annoying noise (I expect I'll get some flak from the "you're destroying the value of your car" anal-retentive concours crowd). |