Quote:
Originally Posted by bmwpowere36m3
While I personally swapped in a 4-spd manual into my 300CD, I have to say MB has some of the worst "shift mechanisms." Rubbery feel and incredibly long throw... however I'll still take it over an automatic transmission for the time being.
|
They are actually pretty easy to make into a short shift. Part of the problem with the MB stick mechanism in my view is that its simply an old external linkage design on the older cars. You have those three levers on the bottom of the shifter, and they are exposed to the elements and can rust and screw up the feel of the shift.
To make a short shift, you can cut the levers on the stick, and lengthen them. I did about 3/4s of an inch followings some info from the UK on one of my test shifters I am playing with. There are other issues to consider, like what this means for reverse light activation, maybe the switch has to be moved in further, and what impact this has on the reverse lockout. The lockout seemed to work properly on mine, even with less throw. I have not finished playing though, so don't know myself, but a UK W201 owner can probably tell you!
Also the mechanisms have three different levels of rubber interface, transmission shift arm to linkage rod, linkage rod to shifter lever, and rubber bushing inside stick mechanism to soften the shift.
My rubber bushings were worn out in the stick, so I replaced them with 12 US dimes as an experiment, and it totally changed the feel of going into gear.