[Fritz]

I've been drooling over the Hargett shifters since I first saw them. It looks like the best solution to my two primary issues.

Issue 1 is I'm tall. So when I sit back in my seat properly the shifter is just barely within my reach, but it can be hard to get into 4th under acceleration.


Issue 2 is that pesky reverse gear.. It's in the wrong place on the 901.. The Hargett has a reverse lockout so that should fix it.

I guess there is also a third issue of currently having the full throw length and the Hargett reduces that as well.

Bonus: I just talked with the designers and they say it can be easily converted to be used with the 915 if I ever make that upgrade. Identical shifter with the lockout moved to the other side.

Has anyone had a chance to use one? What were your thoughts? Did you use their linkage kit, or one like rennshift?

Thanks

[smdubovsky]

I have the rennshift in the 914/6 (901 box). Well made. Also has a reverse lockout. Doesn't solve your problem of moving it closer (higher) though if thats what you want. I've seen people cut the tunnel and move the shifter farther back though. Requires shortening the inner rod (not sure if there is a bushing in the way like there is in a 915 911). On the rennshift, the bent lever part has setscrews to hold it in position. I angled it back AND towards me (Im also 6'2".) So, the knob ends up closer to me. The wevo also has a 'bent' lever but it doesn't appear to be able to be angled towards the driver.

[kaefer]

Originally Posted by smdubovsky

I have the rennshift in the 914/6 (901 box). Well made. Also has a reverse lockout. Doesn't solve your problem of moving it closer (higher) though if thats what you want. I've seen people cut the tunnel and move the shifter farther back though. Requires shortening the inner rod (not sure if there is a bushing in the way like there is in a 915 911). On the rennshift, the bent lever part has setscrews to hold it in position. I angled it back AND towards me (Im also 6'2".) So, the knob ends up closer to me. The wevo also has a 'bent' lever but it doesn't appear to be able to be angled towards the driver.

I also have a Rennshift shifter and love it. In addition to angling the lever I also use a Momo knob with setscrews and have it fastened high up on the lever, increasing the length of the lever by 1.5-2".

I'm 6'4" btw and have no problem reaching the shifter...though I do sit closer to the steering wheel than most tall folks do.

[Fritz]

Well that's a few good recommendations for the rennshift system. I'm glad it seems to be okay with taller folks. It sounds like no one has had a chance to try the Hargett solution. Hard to believe with all the experienced folks around here.

I guess I can toss a coin in the air as they are similar in price when all is said and done.

[arob]

I know that Josh(?), that recently sold his black Carrera race car had one (Hargett) in it. Hopefully he can chime in. That thing was neat-o.

[}{arlequin]

josh had it. i drove w/ it. it's a very nice piece. think you lose the ebrake but for a track car it makes no difference

[Jose]

I had one in my '87 (G50 - so it's a different animal than the one designed for the 901/915). It's a good piece for a dedicated racecar, but for a car that still sees some steet time, I'd go with something else.

You can keep the ebrake and heat levers, but it's a PITA.

I also had problems with parts wearing out after a season or so of track driving. The universal joints Mark uses for the shift linkage are a bit wimpy IMO, and you'll get some side-to-side slop after awhile. I replaced with some heavier duty ones from McMaster which solved the problem, but if you're spending $800+ for a shifter, I think every piece on it should be bulletproof.

If I had to do it again, I'd try the Wevo.

[Fritz]

Originally Posted by Jose

The universal joints Mark uses for the shift linkage are a bit wimpy IMO, and you'll get some side-to-side slop after awhile. I replaced with some heavier duty ones from McMaster which solved the problem, but if you're spending $800+ for a shifter, I think every piece on it should be bulletproof.

I just saw that problem on another forum. Do you remember the diameters/model numbers of the McMaster U-joints you upgraded to? If I go the Hargett route it sounds wise to start off with the heavier duty setup if possible.

[Jose]

Originally Posted by Fritz

I just saw that problem on another forum. Do you remember the diameters/model numbers of the McMaster U-joints you upgraded to? If I go the Hargett route it sounds wise to start off with the heavier duty setup if possible.

I had one of the earlier models, and I know he has changed some things on them so you may want to check with him to see if anything has been updated to address some of the problem areas.

These are the joints you want. I didn't use them as I didn't know about them when I rebuilt my linkage, but from what I understand they will not wear out and develop play as quickly as something like this. I can't remember if he uses 3/8" or 1/2" steel rod for the linkage.

[Fritz]

So after reading about the issues with the Hargett connection becoming sloppy after a year from several people, and hearing about the praise for the Rennshift by tall folks, it made an easy decision. I ordered the 901 Rennshift with the 2 inch shifter extension. I talked with the guys there and they confirmed that it is the same shifter for a 901 and a 915. Just need to decide which way you put the reverse lockout on.

Looks like an easy enough install, but will always take the advice of those who have done it before. Hopefully it'll warm up and I'll find a tolerable day to work in an unheated garage in the next few weekends.

Will announce a Dr. K style "come and watch others work" party when it happens. Except it will be better pizza, fewer sodas, and a full open bar.