I am waiting for my BAR visit next week. I’ve been reviewing the site. I realized that I need to update more items onto this site. I post a lot of things on thefactoryfiveforum.com but need more details here as well!
Recently I’ve been asked about my shifter for the Tremec TKX. It’s modified, I swear, EVERYTHING has been modified in this build (LOL).
- The TKX has 600 lb.-ft. of torque capacity and is capable of engines speeds of 8,000 RPMs with shifts at 7,500 RPMs.
- Designed for multiple applications with three shifter locations. Compact, end-loaded design provides clearance in most transmission tunnels without floor modifications.
- Increased case strength with three-piece aluminum housing provides outstanding structural stiffness (includes main case, intermediate plate and rear extension). Gaskets at all flanges simplifies installation and eliminates fluid leaks.
- Superior shift-ability through use of multi-cone synchronizers and hybrid synchronizer rings made of sintered bronze and carbon
- Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) minimized with gear layout to best control stress levels. All gears supported by caged needle bearings to reduce end play on the gears.
The factory five shifter arm is straight. It sits up rather high. It wasn’t very comfortable in my opinion about how it would sit in the car. It felt like it got too close to the dashboard/stereo.
I found several recommendations for what I was looking for on the forums. I’m using the rear-shifter location on the TKX. This setup suggests a shifter arm a little longer than a mid-mount shifter. I also wanted the shifter to face the driver more. This is where I found the Finishline 427 T5 shifter to come into action.
This is where things get fun.
While I like the lockout mechanism, it’s not functional on this shifter. So I opted to remove the lockout. A problem arises because there’s a hole where the “T” fits into the shifter. The collar also leaves a noticeable gap. See the pics below on the collar difference. I also needed to open up the mounting holes to 3/8-inch to fit the shifter mount.
The shift knob I purchased a long time ago from Breeze Automotive has a 3/8-24 thread pitch. The Finishline shifter is 1/2-20 thread pitch. So in usual fashion, I take a brand new part and hack it up. I sawed off the threads and purchased a Grade 5 bolt and modified it to fit into the shifter handle. My buddy Brad has a CNC machine in his garage (imagine that!) and removed enough material to thin down the bolt to snug it into the shifter handle. A simple weld and it was permanent!
I now had the correct thread pitch for my shifter knob. Next, I needed to figure out the collar. This was necessary to make the shift lever look like a solid piece. I needed a 2″ tube with 1/2″ ID and 5/8″ OD to finish it off. Not easy to find, so my son 3D printed a piece to fit perfectly! I used some chrome vinyl wrap to transition the 3D part to the chrome shifter handle, it looks perfect!
- VviViD Vinyls offers a cheap and easy-to-use alternative to paint.
- The acrylic-based adhesive backing features VViViD Air Release and Heat Fuse technologies to support the DIY’ers and the professional look of the completed quality. Never worry about bubbles or creases when wrapping!
- Sticks to any clean, smooth surface with no mess and no added products necessary. Solvent-based, repositionable, permanent adhesive. This vinyl is expected to easily last 5-7 years outdoors.
- This vinyl can be installed using 3M 94 Primer and 3M Edge sealer to products will promote adhesion and add life to your vinyl (not included).
The final result was a shifter that is a great height, just off the steering wheel. It leans toward me while driving, and not too close to the dash. Overall, it was a decent amount of customization. I wanted to used the shift knob with the Shelby logo, so it’s perfect. Thanks to Brad Clark for the CNC & welding customization. I highly recommend reaching out to him if you’re in the Sacramento area.
This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.
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