Help--B&M Shifter

[ntrylvl]

Hi all,

So I decided to take on a couple of P-car projects during my mini "break" from work (until Jan 2). The first was installing a front strut bar for my '02 996 Coupe. Easy.

Today, I decided to go for the B&M short shifter install. The directions (with the kit and online PDF) seemed relatively straightforward, so I decided to dig in. However, I couldn't even make it past step 2, which is the removal of the knob. The directions indicate that I should be using a hex key and/or loosening a set screw, but I see nothing of the sort. Instead, there is a black plastic collar (approximately 2") that extends down from inside of the knob, over the shifter. Images attached. Am I missing something obvious? I don't want to pull too hard and/or break something in the process.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks!

Chris

[AVIA8R]

I'm not sure that I can help. This is the first time that I've contributed. But, I did put a short shifter on my 02 C4S a few years ago. I also had issues removing the shifter. I didn't want to damage anything, so I was pretty nervous. After reading the same instructions that you most likely got off this site, I tried to find a screw to loosen the shifter. After talking to a few people, I found out that the basic shifter does not have a screw. It is secured purely by friction. So, one night I tried to just pull the thing off. Though it took a lot of effort, it finally pull off with no issues. I've since sold the car, but it's still listed on Luxury Motors' web-site. So, I've down-loaded a picture of the shifter that I had (see attached). So, if it looks like this one, I can attest that it just pulls off.

I hope I uploaded the photo correctly and I hope I helped.

[gpkrider]

hi, i had the same problem when i did mine. the shifter is a press fit, it will come off with some (alot) upward force and a little wiggle action. another trick is with the b&m shifter or other makes dont disconnect cables like the directions say, you can turn the whole assembly over and disconnect the cables, this way you wont upset the cable dimensions. one other thing to is be careful with your leather brake handle it is very easy to tear on the sharp edges of the center console when removing. hope this helps

[ntrylvl]

Thanks, AVIA8R and gpkrider, for your help!

AVIA8R, the shifter in your image is the EXACT same as mine. I will go out and pull that sucker off!

Thanks again,

Chris

[Lee Quave]

Try using search feature. ;) There are many posting on the subject. Below is a link to one that basically tells you that all you need to do is pull hard. I have read another post that suggested using two wrenches to sandwich the shaft just below the knob and pull up. Better leverage.

Good luck.

http://www.renntech.org/forums/index.php?s...;hl=Short+shift

[Scrawf]

The B&M instructions are not very good.

Have you seen these: http://www.caymanclub.net/reviews/showprod...ct=27&cat=4

Not the same short shift kit but better instructions on removing the centre console. Click on the link halfway down the page as well! Fitted mine with a combination of these, the B&M and some other stuff I found on this forum.

Scrawf

Edited December 29, 2007 by Scrawf

[ntrylvl]

Thanks to all who helped.

I did the install today and I must say I cannot be more pleased with the results. The one thing that ALWAYS bothered me about my car was the length of the shift throws. My car has a LWF, and I drive it around town quite a bit, which is a pain in the ***, particularly with the long throws. Now everything seems to have come together the way it should be.

Wow!

Happy New Year.

Chris

[AVIA8R]

I too was very unhappy with the unusually long throw on my 02 C4S. I added the Porsche OEM short shifter kit assembly a few years ago and then added the rear B&M assembly where the cables go into the transmission a few months back. The combination of both pieces made it the best shifter I've ever had. Funny thing is that I traded the car in for a Cayenne Turbo a month later. Oh well, someone will enjoy it.

If you haven't also added the rear assembly, I highly suggest it. My local shop, The Garaj (Dayton, Ohio, HIGHLY SUGGESTED), was able to order just the rear assembly. It's a simple piece of metal that just moves the pivot point. I belive it cost about $100.

[ntrylvl]

AVIA8R,

Thanks for the tip. I was not aware of such an item. I'll look into it.

Happy New Year.

Chris

[KevinMac]

I think it depnds on the year of the car on how to remove the shift knob. My 2000 C2 definitly has the setscrew in the upper front portion. On those that don't it seems a twist and pull releases it.

I am also at the understanding to use the Porsche short shifter and not aftermarket if ther is a chance you want to convert back. From what I have read you have to remove some bushings to install the aftermarket, and this destroys all the chances to change back.

Edited January 8, 2008 by KevinMac

[Loren]

I think it depnds on the year of the car on how to remove the shift knob. My 2000 C2 definitly has the setscrew in the upper front portion. On those that don't it seems a twist and pull releases it.

I am also at the understanding to use the Porsche short shifter and not aftermarket if ther is a chance you want to convert back. From what I have read you have to remove some bushings to install the aftermarket, and this destroys all the chances to change back.

The year is not a factor.

Standard knobs pull off - optional knobs (leather/aluminum, carbon fiber, wood, etc.) all have set screws.

[KevinMac]

Loren - I had the standard knob shipped with the car, clear black top, no trim ring etc. It had a set screw when I updated it to the aluminum/leather look, porsche crest, and trim ring! So I don't think it's the standad vs, the upgrade.

Edited January 9, 2008 by KevinMac

[Loren]

I have taken more than 50 of these off and I have yet to seen anything different than what I described.

[KevinMac]

I have taken more than 50 of these off and I have yet to seen anything different than what I described.

Well then I must be crazy! Because i just did mine 2 months ago and the standard one had a set screw in the upper front! Say what you will!

[Loren]

I am not saying I don't believe you.

Do you have a picture of it?

[KevinMac]

I am not saying I don't believe you.

Do you have a picture of it?

I will take a pic of the old knob & boot assembly and try and post it. Need to get up in my attic to get to the stuff I pulled off recently.

Thanks!