I previously installed the STI short throw shifter linkage in my base model (standard in the Sport package) and recently got a "good deal" on a used COBB double adjustable shift lever for a 5 speed. It was cheap enough that it was worth experimenting with. So time to start taking the interior apart. Mine has some non-standard AC hoses, but they didn't get in the way.
Removing the snap ring holding the shift lever bushing in place is a bit of a pain. I probably need a better snap ring pliers though.
So I setup the pivot length similar to the OEM lever, and the knob rod length at the marked location which is ~1.25" shorter.
But there was a problem. The ball end for this COBB lever is smaller than the OEM shift lever. So the fix is to make a custom nylon shift bushing.
It turns out that the body of this COBB unit is also 0.3" narrower across the width of the pivot bushing, so I ended up using the OEM shift bushing and making some spacers to keep it centered in the connecting link. The way it connects put the lever angled further aft, so I had to trim some insulation for clearance. I also cleaned up and repainted the knob rod prior to installation.
With all the workarounds, its does seem to work well now. I'll try it for a while and see how I like it. Initial driving felt pretty natural, even with the angled back position.
Removing the snap ring holding the shift lever bushing in place is a bit of a pain. I probably need a better snap ring pliers though.
So I setup the pivot length similar to the OEM lever, and the knob rod length at the marked location which is ~1.25" shorter.
But there was a problem. The ball end for this COBB lever is smaller than the OEM shift lever. So the fix is to make a custom nylon shift bushing.
It turns out that the body of this COBB unit is also 0.3" narrower across the width of the pivot bushing, so I ended up using the OEM shift bushing and making some spacers to keep it centered in the connecting link. The way it connects put the lever angled further aft, so I had to trim some insulation for clearance. I also cleaned up and repainted the knob rod prior to installation.
With all the workarounds, its does seem to work well now. I'll try it for a while and see how I like it. Initial driving felt pretty natural, even with the angled back position.