SC shifter-how to stop it being a pain in the leg?

07:41 PM

I'm about 6' 4" and when driving my '81 SC Getting it into 1st or 2nd gear meant jamming the shifter into my thigh near my knee and then rake down my thigh to get into 2nd. Is there a way to move the shifter over towards the passenger side so I can shift without raking my leg? Thanks for your reply!

Doug E · 07-30-2002, 05:58 PM

Not sure about moving it, but have you considered a short shift kit?

911pcars · 07-30-2002, 10:12 PM

Don't try to introduce thigh clearance by adjusting the shift coupler (behind seat, inside the tunnel). This will disturb the proper shift engagement.

I would heat the shift lever and bend it so it clears the important parts of your anatomy.

A short shift kit may create some added comfort as well.

Sherwood Lee
http://members.rennlist.org/911pcars

trak ratt · 07-31-2002, 03:27 AM

Try adjusting the shifter w/the shaft to the right a little. There should be some room in the shifter adjustment range but probally not much more than a inch or so. Also, there’s no reason why you can’t “bend” or replace the shaft so it is moved to the right. I’d pick up an extra shifter at a swap meet just incase. My short shift kit did locate the shaft a little to the right and I expect it could be adjusted to the right even more.

ChrisBennet · ChrisBennet's Garage

The up part of the shifter shaft is epoxied into the lower part. You may be able to disassemble it before you heat and bend. This summer I've seen a couple of shift levers come loose at track events.
-Chris

gregk1 · 07-31-2002, 05:12 AM

I am 6'2 and had a real problum with this same thing in my 914. I did the same thing as what Sherwood said. I took the Blue tip wrench and heated the shifter and problem solved It had a short shift kit in it and took it out and threw it in the Trash!!

911pcars · 07-31-2002, 11:11 AM

As Chris pointed out (I should have also), the ball end of the shift lever is attached with epoxy (or equiv.). If you apply heat to the lever, keep the end cool (wet rag) and concentrate the heat above the bend.

Sherwood Lee
http://members.rennlist.org/911pcars

Drago · Drago's Garage

I'd also opt for a smaller diameter steering wheel.

Targa Dude · Targa Dude's Garage

Hi CK, Have you concidered on top of what has already been mentioned installing a gate shifter.. Here is a link it's pretty interesting.. and affordable too.

Installing Sherwood Lee's Gate Shifter Kit

Jorge (Targa Dude)

NapTownSpeedy · 07-31-2002, 02:27 PM

I know what you mean. I'm 6'5" and my legs get in the way. I just repalced the bushings in the shift linkage. When I set the cup bushing back into its place, I rotated the lever a little bit toward the passenger seat. It works well, and even though I didn't get much adjustment it does help.

Word to the wise, when doing the shift bushing replacement, BUY A NEW COUPLER. I thought I would be smart, but oh no. I still had to go to find a shop with a bearing press to get the things out and the new one in. With a new coupler it is an hour job, w/o...lets see removal, 20 minute walk each way... man I hate screwing up.