915 tranny question

[nolove670]

what is the best improvement for 915. Is a shift gate worth adding or is the the short shift kit better? I've also heard that you should leave the tranny stock. Advice for new p-car owner appreciated...thanks

[greg bradbury]

The short shift kit should be referred to as "the shift the factory should have provided all along" kit. It's not that short but it works well. That is it feels normal for the car. There is no real reason for going for an ultra short shift in the 915 box as you can't shift that fast anyway. The box won't let you. Even with all new synros and sliders the shift is still on the slow side. OK but slowish by new car standards.

If you are asking the question because your shift is less that perfect a short shift kit won't help. If your box has a baulky shift now its probably OK. If it crunches slightly it may need the syncros replaced (or they can be even turned around). If the crunching is left for a long time the sliders may be worn and that means $$$, but hey you can still get the parts so that's a +. If you intend working on it yourself check out the following thread by RCECALE which is really good. There is good info supplied by "Grady Clay" and "John Walker" and many others that will guide you through whats necessary.
Can't Shift Into First

If you want info on short shifters do a search on WEVO etc and you should get plenty of info.

My advice would be to leave it alone for now unless you feel that the shift is too baulky or crunching. If there is no crunching (usually it will crunch when cold and on up shifts 1-2 and 2-3) and you must have a SS then go the factory one as it suits the car.

Hope this helps

Regards,
Greg.

[ChrisBennet]

Your '86 has a "shorter" shift already. If forget when ('85?) but the factory shortened the shifter somewhat. For comparison, in 2nd gear an SC shifter almost hits the drivers seat.
-Chris