Has anyone fitted one of these to the end of a six speed gear stick assembly. (Replaces the original Mazda plastic collar which is prone to ware)
The USA MX5 forums suggest that once installed the gear change is more of an improvement than an oil change. However others say that theirs only lasted a number of months then had to go back the the Mazda original as the shift had become too stiff.
So if you have used this or you know anyone who has what is your review ?
Ok, so no response! Well having read further positive reveiws from MX-5 Miata Forum. Plus hearing that Mazda have resorted to this very item installed in the new mk4, I ordered one. Gosh I had to pay import duty, handling charge plus the part £45.00 in total. Over the weekend, I decided to put it to the test. I have already changed gearbox oil and added gearbox syncro additive, adjusted clutch freeplay/stroke and clutch fluid 3000 miles ago.
Note the new bush has the exact same diameter.
My car has covered 24000 miles and you can see the damage already to old bush.
The Beatrush Brass Shift Collar inserted into the turret oil
Conclusion, Gearshift is much improved. selecting gear with ease now, clicks into gear without much resistance at all. First and second 90% better.
The Bush has stepped up to the test so far, 2000 miles in with no problems. In fact, The feel of gear change has got better over that time. Hardly any fight changing between 1st, 2nd and third gears first thing in the morning when cold. I would definitely recommend one.
Hi Sparks, just wondered, any increase in noise through the gear lever? Plastic bushes often used as an insulator. Any tizz or hiss? I assume it’s the same on a 5 speed?
No there is no noise feedback through the gear lever, far from it, just a nice secure snap feeling in the gear changing hand. I purchased it from here http://rev9autosport.com/ £45 all in when i bought it
I’ve done it on my Mk2 but that was replaced with a nylon bush it will be same operation.
Had the gear stick out of the Mk3 too. Remove centre console, can be a bit fiddly with the window switch connector block. Then remove gear stick securing bolts and pull it out, replace bush and just remember to replace the gear stick the way it came out. Worth checking the turret oil too, top up as shown in Sparks pic to just above the bush, sometimes they run dry, it’s only a tiny amount of oil you need for that if needed.
That would be basically it, unless I’ve forgot something.
Oh and thanks Sparks for the advice, looks like I will be doing the same soon.
Just a thought, would it work out cheaper to buy more than one, say saving on shipping/import charges?
ordered and on its way! I should prob get my mechanic to do a motorcraft gearbox oil change at the same time. make sure the 'box is as good as it’s gonna get!
Ordered and on the way. I’ll fit the ‘proper’ centre cubby I got from some one on here at the same time. Depending on how it feels I might even splash out on one of these. Will report back once fitted.