In the world of cars, every millisecond counts, especially when it comes to shifting gears. Short throw shifters, a mechanical device designed to reduce the distance and effort required to change gears, enhancing your driving experience and speed. In this article, we will explore short throw shifters including what they are, their advantages, drawbacks, frequently asked questions regarding short throw shifters, and their impact on driving dynamics.

What are short throw shifters?

A short throw shifter is a modification installed in vehicles with manual transmissions to reduce the distance the gear lever must travel between shifts. This modification typically involves altering the geometry of the shifter mechanism, resulting in shorter and crisper shifts. By decreasing the throw distance, a short throw shifter enables faster and more precise gear changes, enhancing the driver’s control and engagement with the vehicle.

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Important Note:

A short throw shifter is a modification specifically designed for manual transmission vehicles. If you happen to have a vehicle with an automatic transmission this modification will not apply to you.

Pros and Cons

Short throw shifters are a wonderful modification however before you purchase one it is advisable to weigh the advantages and disadvantages so have a complete grasp of the concept before you begin the modification process.

Pros:

1. Quicker Shifts

Short throw shifters reduce the time it takes to shift gears, allowing drivers to accelerate more quickly and maintain momentum with a lower chance of missing shifts.

2. Better Shifting Engagement

The shorter throw results in more precise gear engagements, reducing the likelihood of missed shifts and providing a more connected driving feel.

3. Enhanced Driving Experience

Manual transmissions already help drivers to feel connected to their vehicles but through quicker and more precise shifting the experience is heightened drastically.

4. Customization

Many aftermarket short throw shifters offer adjustability, allowing drivers to fine-tune the shifter’s feel and location to their preference for the most fitted position.

5. Aesthetic Appeal

Short throw shifters often feature sleek designs and premium materials, enhancing the interior aesthetics of the vehicle.

Cons:

1. Increased effort to shift

Some drivers may find that short throw shifters require slightly more effort to operate compared to the stock shifter, particularly in heavy traffic or during extended driving sessions. This is due to the reduced mechanical advantage caused by a shorter gear lever. However you can combat this with longer shift knobs.

2. Installation Complexity

Installing a short throw shifter typically requires a level of mechanical aptitude and will require the disassembly of parts in order to install, however not an overly complex installation some may find this modification challenging to do and it would be advised to seek professional help if you do not feel fully confident in your abilities. 

3. Voiding Warranty

Modifying the shifter assembly may void certain vehicle’s warranty, depending on the manufacturer’s policies. Some short throw shifters will require modification to parts of the shifter column or center console which will likely void your warranty.

4. Compatibility Issues

Not all vehicles are compatible with aftermarket short throw shifters, and some models may require additional modifications or adapters for proper fitment. Some vehicles not commonly modified do not have a short throw shifter option available.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are short throw shifters compatible with all manual transmission vehicles?

While many short throw shifters are designed to be compatible with a wide range of vehicles, compatibility can vary depending on the make and model. It’s essential to verify compatibility before purchasing a short throw shifter for your vehicle.

Do short throw shifters affect the durability of the transmission?

When installed correctly and used appropriately, short throw shifters should not adversely affect the durability or lifespan of the transmission. However, aggressive shifting techniques or improper installation could potentially increase wear and tear on transmission components.

Can I revert to the stock shifter after installing a short throw shifter?

In most cases, it is absolutely possible to revert back to the stock shifter if desired. However, this will involve reinstalling the original components requiring additional time and labor but about as quickly as it took to install your short throw shifter. If you have altered your transmission  column or center console to fit a short throw shifter you may be left with unwanted fabrication potentially interfering with the factory reliability and look of your original shifter/interior.

Disclaimer

The installation and use of aftermarket automotive modifications, including short throw shifters, should be done with caution and may void vehicle warranties or laws. It is recommended to consult with a qualified automotive technician or professional before proceeding with any modifications.

Conclusion

Short throw shifters are a compelling upgrade for automotive enthusiasts seeking to elevate their driving experience. Reducing shift times and enhancing precision, these modifications enhance the experience of manual transmissions with a new sense of connection and responsiveness. While installation may require some effort and consideration, the benefits of shorter, quicker, and crisper shifts are undoubtedly worth the investment for many driving enthusiasts. So, if you’re looking to unlock the full potential of your vehicle, consider short throw shifters as your next modification. Thanks for reading!