Shortening shifter handle on 308 | FerrariChat
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Shortening shifter handle on 308

Discussion in 'Technical Q&A' started by silverfox, Aug 20, 2006.

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  1. silverfox

    silverfox Rookie

    Jul 26, 2006
    37
    Switzerland, Bern
    Full Name:
    Rob the Canadian
    #1 silverfox, Aug 20, 2006
    Has anyone ever shortened the shifter handle on a 308? Mine is standard length, but it could be shortened about 3-4 inches for ease of use and reach. It is like driving a bus with a 3 foot shifter sometimes. I checked the price for one of these new, and it is £500. Sooooo, I don't want to risk the chance of cutting the shifter, and destroying it. I know it is probably hardened stainless which worries me since I probably wont be able to re-thread it once cut....
    Has anyone ever tried and successfully cut and rethreaded it "on the car"?
    Rob
     
  2. tuttebenne

    tuttebenne F1 Rookie

    Mar 26, 2003
    3,218
    Bay Shore, NY
    Full Name:
    Andy
    #2 tuttebenne, Aug 20, 2006
    Sorry I can't say that I've tried it. To my thinking, shortening it would not make it easier to use - wouldn't it be harder?
     
  3. PAP 348

    PAP 348 Ten Time F1 World Champ
    Lifetime Rossa Owner

    Dec 10, 2005
    100,220
    Mount Isa, Australia
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    Pap
    #3 PAP 348, Aug 20, 2006

    You would certainly have less of a 'throw' on the shifter by shortening it. For sure. Less leverage on the stick, would make it harder. :) His decision I guess. Would look cool having a short shift 308 wouldnt. Who cares if he has to use more effort to get into gears. Popeye just eats more spinach! ;)
     
  4. PAP 348

    PAP 348 Ten Time F1 World Champ
    Lifetime Rossa Owner

    Dec 10, 2005
    100,220
    Mount Isa, Australia
    Full Name:
    Pap
    #4 PAP 348, Aug 20, 2006

    I have never done this in a 308 Rob, but my suggestion would be to remove the shifter and take it to a machine shop to cut it down and then have them cut the new thread on the shaft. They can cut threads on the lathe. A good computerised lathe, once setup correctly by a good operator, will never make a mistake. Not the ones ive seen in action anyways. :) Would cost you around 1 hour labour, whatever they charge. Thats what id do mate. If you are worried about it. :)
     
  5. 308 GTB

    308 GTB F1 World Champ
    Rossa Subscribed

    Feb 7, 2002
    11,718
    New Jersey
    Full Name:
    Barry Wolinsky
    #5 308 GTB, Aug 20, 2006
    If you must:

    http://ferrarichat.com/forum/showthread.php?t=31098
     

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