Shift Linkage Inertial Mass

[enganear]

There is a mass bolted to the shift linkage that I have seen commonly referred to in these forums as a counterweight, although it is technically not countering anything. The effect of this mass is to smooth the peak forces of the notches encountered in the gear selection process. It also has the effect of slowing the acceleration of the linkage for a given force and the momentum is used up in impact at the end of the linkage travel. It increases the peak force seen at the synchronizer rings.

I know many have removed this mass and some have replaced it after removal. I intend to try this myself and would like to hear your opinions on the "feel" after removal.

Is it harsh?
Does the unmasking of the notches improve shift "feel".
Do you miss fewer shifts?

Thanks,
-enganear

 

[aaronc7]

If I remember correctly, it made it a little notchier, not quite as a smooth feel. But I think it gives a better 'feel'....as a result I haven't missed a single shift since I took it off. I've had it this way for a couple thousand miles so I really don't it's just coincidence or luck. My .02 cents, try it out, you can always bolt it back on

 

[enganear]

If I remember correctly, it made it a little notchier, not quite as a smooth feel. But I think it gives a better 'feel'....as a result I haven't missed a single shift since I took it off. I've had it this way for a couple thousand miles so I really don't it's just coincidence or luck. My .02 cents, try it out, you can always bolt it back on

I just removed the mass from the linkage and WOW! This is almost as big an improvement in shifting as the CS inserts I installed. When I went for a road test, I did not want to come back. I can shift quickly now without overpowering the synchronizers. If the velocity was plotted against position comparing the two configurations, I think it would show a much higher speed exiting from one gear and crossing neutral followed by a sharp drop as the linkage encountered the synchros for the next gear, followed by a smooth engagement as the synchros did their job. The dip in velocity is felt as a "notch". I like it a LOT! The linkage mass definitely masks the shift feel, just like a weighted shift knob does and places a lot more stress on the synchros.

I ended up removing the fasteners for the front half of the driver side wheelwell liner and pulling it back to gain access to the (2) 12mm screws that secure the mass to the linkage. Mazda used a copious amount of a very impressive locking compound on the threads and you have to crank hard on the screws all the way out. It is worth the effort. If you put the car in the air on ramps or stands, it is probably easier to reach by removing the under-engine panel.

And as you say, it is completely reversible if it does not work for you.
-enganear

 

[meha11]

^^ i guess you're impressed then ^^

 

[oskinosmee]

Can someone post a HOW TO with pics please?

 

[ms3guy22]

^yes take out your man card and rip it in half
Its so easy take off your air box and take a socket driver and I think a 12mm socket. unbolt the bolts and remove

 

[enganear]

Can someone post a HOW TO with pics please?

Its a pretty basic mod. See the attached picture borrowed from the Rotus Short Shift How-To. The mass is secured with (2) !2mm screws on the fore-aft linkage on top of the transmission. If you have a CAI, you can probably reach it from the top. If you are stock, I recommend coming from the driver side wheel-well or from underneath if you use ramps. If you put in a rear mount, you were inches away from it.
-enganear

 

[freebird_78]

Just tried this myself. If you have an intake, as I do, this only takes about 60 seconds.

The change is not night and day, its a little more subtle, but definately noticeable. With the weight on, the shift feels more numb. With it off, you can feel every little engagement, disengagement, etc from the transmission internals, which is why it's probably there to begin with. I would imagine that this may even slightly prolong the life of the transmission, as you can feel your mistakes.

It's probably not for everyone. In fact, I'm not convinced that I want to keep it like that myself, but for 60 seconds and $0.00, it's worth a shot.

 

[itzl0l]

yea the thing i like about it is that is should be better for the tranny....the syncros and the shift forks too. If u miss a shift with that mass on there, there is alot more force to stop.

 

[channah]

ill have to give it a try

 

[jville]

Good idea. I'm going outside in my PJ's right now to try it

 

[channah]

i did it but im not too sure if i like it. its loud when i shift like i cant feel the shifter hittin stuff.

 

[Moonpie.Express]

^yes take out your man card and rip it in half

HAHAHA!

Sounds nice...mine will come off tomorrow!

 

[Moonpie.Express]

I think it has a much lighter feel overall. Not bad.

 

[ms3guy22]

just take off you weight and reverse the way its mounted. I've noticed a difference