the stock shifter counterweight sucks

[Chris Barnett]

I bought a speed 3 and now have about 1200 miles on it. When romping on it or shifting fast, it would grind into second and third every time. The feel was pretty vague, but decently weighted.

I ordered a set of TWM bushings, but they aren't here yet. I saw a couple posts about removing the counterweight, so I tried it. Shifts were much more direct, but the action was way too light. It felt skeletonized, so to speak.

So I compromised. I cut a little more than 1/3 of the counterweight. It is asymmetrical in shape, so I didn't cut the same width off of each side. I actually measured it with dial calipers, and cut it to match the same weight balance it had before. I cut 0.687" on one side, 1.2" on the thinner side. I also drilled two holes near the center for just a little less weight. Keeping it balanced might not matter much, but I figured it was best to keep the cables from being overstressed and snapping.

Major difference. It shifts with a more direct feel, and the throw is still nicely weighted. It's a lot closer to my old Mazdaspeed Miata now, except the throw is still longer, but proportionate for a wagon as compared to a roadster.

 

[Betelgeuse]

I think you will be pleasantly surprised with the bushings. I'd have waited till they were in before messing with the counterweight though. Anyway, still an interesting mod. No one afaik has actually cut it yet to reduce weight. Another thing that seems to really help people who have grinding issues is a stiffer rear mount.

 

[winniep]

After installing the bushings, STS, and MM I noticed a major difference in feel. It still had a little "clunk" to it though. Then I decided to remove the counterweight and haven't looked back since. I do see what you mean about the feel being skeletonized, but it is ALOT more positive as far as shifts and powershifts IMO. Now it clicks into gear instead of uuhhh.......thud.

 

[enganear]

I thought about replacing the mass with something smaller before I removed mine. I did not want to cut the stocker when all I had to do was tap a hole or two into a piece of bar stock. After living with it removed, I like it and do not plan to replace it. Shift accuracy is much improved IMHO.

With the mass removed, it feels just like the 6 speed 318 I rented in Germany earlier this week.
-enganear

 

[Moonpie.Express]

I tried the mass removal and also felt it was really light.
I do agree with Enganear. I have a variety of solid steel lying about and might give that a try when I get some time.

Good idea though!!

 

[LReyes66]

wait is there a how to guide on how to remove the counter weight? and what does it look like...


lol ive had the twm bushings for almost 2 months now but since back then i used a screwdriver socket wrench soo it wasnt tight and couple of days ago i used a real wrench it tightend it tight AND WOW DID I WASTE 2 MONHTS OF WTF SHIFTING... anyways i wanna know if removing the counter weight will make it feel even better then it does now

 

[hectik1]

Just did it tonight and I love it. Feels so much lighter and quicker shifting. Another great (free) mod!