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914World.com _ 914World Garage _ My latest product idea
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 1 2014, 10:03 AM
With all the enhancements available for our shift linkage, there's still one thing no one has ever addressed.
Adjusting the rotation so all three shift planes are where they belong relative to the lever assembly has always been a PITA, and is even more difficult with a Rennshift due to the small opening to access the pinch bolt.
In addition, installing a more precise shift linkage assembly, like we all crave, makes precise adjustment even more critical.
There should be a way to maintain alignment of the tunnel rod with the fork under the shift lever, and make precisely controlled rotation adjustments in a minute or less.
An idea I've had on the back burner for a long time has finally reached the prototyping stage. 
I'm going to test a replacement Fork piece (914 424 171 01) machined from billet that incorporates a worm type adjuster against the splines of the tunnel rod.
If it works it I believe it will be a game changer. 
Posted by: Kansas 914 Oct 1 2014, 10:05 AM
With all the enhancements available for our shift linkage, there's still one thing no one has ever addressed.
Adjusting the rotation so all three shift planes are where they belong relative to the lever assembly has always been a PITA, and is even more difficult with a Rennshift due to the small opening to access the pinch bolt.
In addition, installing a more precise shift linkage assembly, like we all crave, makes precise adjustment even more critical.
There should be a way to maintain alignment of the tunnel rod with the fork under the shift lever, and make precisely controlled rotation adjustments in a minute or less.
An idea I've had on the back burner for a long time has finally reached the prototyping stage.
I'm going to test a replacement Fork piece (914 424 171 01) machined from billet that incorporates a worm type adjuster against the splines of the tunnel rod.
If it works it I believe it will be a game changer.
![popcorn[1].gif](style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif)
Posted by: Dave_Darling Oct 1 2014, 11:25 AM
Ooooh, that sounds mighty tasty!!!
--DD
Posted by: Woody Oct 1 2014, 11:26 AM
Posted by: mepstein Oct 1 2014, 11:42 AM
I have no idea what part you are referring to but put me on the list for one
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 1 2014, 12:17 PM
I have no idea what part you are referring to but put me on the list for one
Here's a solidworks model to help identify the part I'm referring to.
Posted by: Dr Evil Oct 1 2014, 12:24 PM
I have been mulling this over for years as well, and only recently started collecting stuff to mess with it. Looking forward to seeing what you develop and your data 
Posted by: tornik550 Oct 1 2014, 12:36 PM
I have no idea what part you are referring to but put me on the list for one
me too
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 1 2014, 12:43 PM
I have been mulling this over for years as well, and only recently started collecting stuff to mess with it. Looking forward to seeing what you develop and your data
I should have a "proof of concept" part in hand sometime tomorrow.
If it functions as expected I'll make a full prototype right away.
My original idea centered around an add-on piece that clamped to the rod but I think the current direction is much more elegant and will provide really easy adjustment.
Posted by: wes Oct 1 2014, 12:46 PM
I must say it never cease to amaze me all the great people who continue to invent new ways to improve our already great old cars! Many thanks to you and all the others! Oh Ill be watching for a release date.
Posted by: Dr Evil Oct 1 2014, 12:53 PM
I have been mulling this over for years as well, and only recently started collecting stuff to mess with it. Looking forward to seeing what you develop and your data
I should have a "proof of concept" part in hand sometime tomorrow.
If it functions as expected I'll make a full prototype right away.
My original idea centered around an add-on piece that clamped to the rod but I think the current direction is much more elegant and will provide really easy adjustment.
Always thinking
That reminds me, I need to get one of those oil pressure kit thingys from you in the near future
Posted by: RobW Oct 1 2014, 01:06 PM
I had a Rennshift pop off at an autocross and it was tough getting it back in then tougher to line up. My fingers hurt after trying to get into the tunnel! Should be a good product!
Posted by: Matt Romanowski Oct 1 2014, 02:18 PM
Cool!
Posted by: stugray Oct 1 2014, 02:41 PM
Seems like a great idea!
However, couldnt the adjuster go on either end or even in the middle?
Wherever it is cheapest to reproduce the part with the mods I guess.
I am picturing a worm gear like a hose clamp with no slop and a locking screw of course.
Posted by: bigkensteele Oct 1 2014, 08:39 PM
So, you really think that you are smarter than the engineers that gave us an unsealed battery sitting over a crucial structural component of the car, yet under a hole that water can enter freely?
You truly believe that your ideas could be better than those that gave us foam in the rear quarter taillight area and trunk lid frame?
Of course those guys probably had two beers at every lunch, so you can't expect them to get everything right.
Looking forward to see how this works out.
Posted by: RobW Oct 1 2014, 10:23 PM
So, you really think that you are smarter than the engineers that gave us an unsealed battery sitting over a crucial structural component of the car, yet under a hole that water can enter freely?
You truly believe that your ideas could be better than those that gave us foam in the rear quarter taillight area and trunk lid frame?
Of course those guys probably had two beers at every lunch, so you can't expect them to get everything right.
Looking forward to see how this works out.
Good point...
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 2 2014, 06:23 AM
Of course those guys probably had two beers at every lunch, so you can't expect them to get everything right.
I've had the benefit of 30 years experience with what they created, and more than a few deep contemplations on the various "mistakes" made by the factory.
So if I actually do make an improvement that doesn't necessarily mean I'm smarter.
Posted by: worn Oct 2 2014, 02:02 PM
Of course those guys probably had two beers at every lunch, so you can't expect them to get everything right.
I've had the benefit of 30 years experience with what they created, and more than a few deep contemplations on the various "mistakes" made by the factory.
So if I actually do make an improvement that doesn't necessarily mean I'm smarter.
Oh, no. Here you are mistaken. Yes it fuching well will! A worm screw to angle the assembly. What could be more elegant? We might say out of kindness that the engineers thought of this and were told it was over budget. Or we might say something else. Well done!
Posted by: r_towle Oct 2 2014, 02:20 PM
Of course those guys probably had two beers at every lunch, so you can't expect them to get everything right.
I've had the benefit of 30 years experience with what they created, and more than a few deep contemplations on the various "mistakes" made by the factory.
So if I actually do make an improvement that doesn't necessarily mean I'm smarter.
It's possible that 30 years later, the local micro brew industry around your shop is better than the Stuttgart beer was back in the day.
A simple explanation.
If you are interested, I would be more than happy to give you my car to go from meh, to install all you bits for testing and trial....of course I would pay for the stuff....
Posted by: jim_hoyland Oct 2 2014, 04:22 PM
I have no idea what part you are referring to but put me on the list for one
Here's a solidworks model to help identify the part I'm referring to.
Great thinking !
Where does this part fit ?
Posted by: Mblizzard Oct 2 2014, 04:55 PM
Once again, Chris is going to get more of my money. Love this concept after struggling with adjusting mine for so long.
Posted by: Java2570 Oct 2 2014, 05:09 PM
Once again, Chris is going to get more of my money. Love this concept after struggling with adjusting mine for so long.
Damn, you're right about that! I've already been thinking about those cool pushrod tubes!
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 3 2014, 01:42 PM
The first thing I tried didn't work well enough (too delicate) so after a little searching on the internet I found some components which I think can be readily adapted to my concept.
Here's an updated model showing the worm and gear pieces in the assembly.
Support for the worm hasn't been modeled yet.
I intend for the gear to be a light press on the splined shaft so it will act as a fore-aft locator, yet not rotate independently of the shaft - that is if I can successfully broach the id of the acetal gear with a piece of the splined shaft.
Posted by: Mblizzard Oct 3 2014, 04:53 PM
So ready for this item!
Posted by: SKL1 Oct 3 2014, 06:38 PM
add me to the "list"... had that same issue adjusting the rennshift on both my '14's...
Posted by: Dr Evil Oct 4 2014, 12:26 PM
The first thing I tried didn't work well enough (too delicate) so after a little searching on the internet I found some components which I think can be readily adapted to my concept.
Here's an updated model showing the worm and gear pieces in the assembly.
Support for the worm hasn't been modeled yet.
I intend for the gear to be a light press on the splined shaft so it will act as a fore-aft locator, yet not rotate independently of the shaft - that is if I can successfully broach the id of the acetal gear with a piece of the splined shaft.
I was having trouble envisioning this until this pic. Super cool. Cant wait to see your functioning part
Posted by: mepstein Oct 4 2014, 12:36 PM
I get it now. So this would compliment all the other upgraded parts by allowing you to precisely adjust the linkage. Nice!
Posted by: Harpo Oct 4 2014, 02:01 PM
Very nice Chris. Sign me up
David
Posted by: swood Oct 4 2014, 03:00 PM
Def interested
Posted by: Krieger Oct 4 2014, 10:36 PM
I have always hated adjusting my shift linkage. This would make it really nice! Good work Chris!
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 17 2014, 02:12 PM
First working prototype is ready for trial installation.
The nylon worm has a 3/16" allen socket molded into the top.
Posted by: Hank914 Oct 17 2014, 02:16 PM
First working prototype is ready for trial installation.
The nylon worm has a 3/16" allen socket molded into the top.
I like this! I just upgraded to side shift, and this is exactly what's needed.
Put me down if the list has started.
Posted by: rjames Oct 17 2014, 02:21 PM
Couldn't agree more. Thanks for working on this!!
And I get the general concept of the design, but is the adjustment (in your prototype at least) made with the allen bolt? And if yes, what keeps the shift rod locked into position once the adjustment is made?
Posted by: Java2570 Oct 17 2014, 02:24 PM
That's pretty slick....definitely interested in one of those!
Posted by: race914 Oct 17 2014, 03:13 PM
I feel another 914 shirt coming
TESLA
FOLEY
Posted by: Mike1981 Oct 17 2014, 05:34 PM
Looks great
Im in for one !
Mike
Posted by: Dave_Darling Oct 17 2014, 09:04 PM
Looks like the bolt vertically through the coupler squeezes the coupler tight against the rod, just like stock piece. So that's what holds the adjustment, and the worm gear can provide fine adjustment after the pinch bolt is loosened.
--DD
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 18 2014, 10:20 AM
I feel another 914 shirt coming
TESLA
FOLEY
I'll take 3.
2 - XL, 1 - LG please
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 18 2014, 10:24 AM
Looks like the bolt vertically through the coupler squeezes the coupler tight against the rod, just like stock piece. So that's what holds the adjustment, and the worm gear can provide fine adjustment after the pinch bolt is loosened.
--DD
Exactly.
As soon as I install the prototype I'll take pictures to show more clearly how it works.
Posted by: maf914 Oct 18 2014, 12:30 PM
I am probably missing something, but why are two pairs of holes provided at the base of the shift lever attachment. A bolt is shown in the lower pair of holes. Is this a short shift option?
Looks great Chris.
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 18 2014, 01:33 PM
Is this a short shift option?
You are correct sir!
Posted by: nihil44 Oct 19 2014, 03:37 AM
Chris,
Why not go metric instead of 3/16". All of Porsche is metric. Perhaps consider 4,5 or 6mm.
Let's make working on our cars simple. What is simpler than metric?
David
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 19 2014, 06:41 AM
Chris,
Why not go metric instead of 3/16". All of Porsche is metric. Perhaps consider 4,5 or 6mm.
Let's make working on our cars simple. What is simpler than metric?
David
I always look at metric options first, however I won't force the issue if it increases the cost.
Production volume of an item like this doesn't justify an investment in custom made miniature worm gear pieces.
This is what I found available - off the shelf - for a proper test of concept.
Until my order arrived I didn't even know a hex pocket was molded into one end of the worm body.
It simplifies the assembly compared to my original plan.
So far I'm very encouraged by the results.
Although the production component will undoubtedly be noticeably different from the prototype.
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 21 2014, 09:46 AM
Posted by: Mblizzard Oct 21 2014, 09:48 AM
Cant wait to try this out!
Posted by: Dr Evil Oct 21 2014, 09:59 AM
Fantastic!
Posted by: SA-914 Oct 21 2014, 10:17 AM
Wow! that is pretty cool!
Posted by: blabla914 Oct 21 2014, 10:41 AM
That's nice work Chris. More accurate and a heck of a lot easier than nudging that thing like 20 bazillion times.
Posted by: ClayPerrine Oct 21 2014, 11:00 AM
Posted by: sbsix Oct 21 2014, 11:09 AM
Chris, pardon my engineering ignorance but it looks like this would be a universal part for all 914s, including 914-6s. Is that right?
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 21 2014, 12:00 PM
Chris, pardon my engineering ignorance but it looks like this would be a universal part for all 914s, including 914-6s. Is that right?
Close.
It won't work with tailshift 914 boxes or 915 boxes.
Posted by: Chris Pincetich Oct 21 2014, 01:30 PM
My Rennshift is a bit elevated on 2-3 stacked washers because the linkage part rubbed. I recall I was not the only one who did this on install, but it was not "supposed" to be needed. Anywho, for what it's worth, make the piece as shallow and narrow as possible. I still get a minuscule rub shifting to 1st with the Rennshift.
Keep up the great work!
Posted by: Java2570 Oct 21 2014, 01:31 PM
That looks great, Chris! How much reduction will the short shift option give?
Posted by: Vacca Rabite Oct 21 2014, 05:23 PM
So this will also work with a Rennshifter?
Zach
Posted by: Harpo Oct 21 2014, 05:58 PM
So this will also work with a Rennshifter?
Zach
Good question
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 21 2014, 06:37 PM
So this will also work with a Rennshifter?
Zach
That's the plan.
I'll probably install the second prototype in a Rennshift prepared car.
Posted by: mepstein Oct 21 2014, 06:42 PM
So this will also work with a Rennshifter?
Zach
That's the plan.
I'll probably install the second prototype in a Rennshift prepared car.
Good.
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 21 2014, 07:51 PM
That looks great, Chris! How much reduction will the short shift option give?
I haven't calculated it yet. I just made the 2nd holes half an inch higher.
Posted by: Vacca Rabite Oct 21 2014, 07:56 PM
So in a car with a Renshifter, your firewall aft kit and shift console kit, what will this get me?
Will it improve shifting if I already have the shifter adjusted?
Zach
Posted by: r_towle Oct 21 2014, 08:05 PM
So in a car with a Renshifter, your firewall aft kit and shift console kit, what will this get me?
Will it improve shifting if I already have the shifter adjusted?
Zach
While it may shift well, it may also still run like shit....just saying
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 21 2014, 08:19 PM
So in a car with a Renshifter, your firewall aft kit and shift console kit, what will this get me?
Will it improve shifting if I already have the shifter adjusted?
Zach
This mechanism will help one find the best adjustment quickly and easily.
Slight adjustments can be tested without fear of losing the baseline position.
It will only improve your shifting if your current adjustment isn't as good as it can be.
Posted by: Racer Chris Oct 31 2014, 12:06 PM
I redesigned the worm support block after the testing the first prototype.
The first unit had a support pin in the center of the worm but it was only held from the bottom, which created too much backlash.
Now it rides in a 3/8" dia. pocket just large enough for the worm to turn without noticeable free play.
Here's a pic of the second prototype installed under a Rennshift.
Installation only takes a few minutes but does require the shifter to be removed from the tunnel.
Adjustment was very easy even though the Rennshift adjuster opening is rather small.
After getting the lever fore-aft position set by sliding the gear on the shaft, I put it into 3rd gear and pulled it back out partway (onto the synchro) so I had good access to both the clamping bolt and the adjuster.
Then I loosened the clamping bolt and rotated the gear until the lever was exactly midway in the center plane, and re-tightened the bolt.
All 6 gears go in smoothly with equal spacing between the three planes.
I'll drive it to check the alignment in operation, and if a slight re-adjustment is needed it'll take about one minute.
Posted by: Racer Chris Nov 1 2014, 04:53 PM
No readjustment needed. Perfect the first time. 
I have two prototypes available for further customer evaluation.
Price is $149, delivered.
Posted by: bandjoey Nov 1 2014, 05:22 PM
PATENT THIS IMMEDIATELY. YOU'RE FUTURE IS SECURE! Good Luck. This should be on all cars. My tranny is shifting like silk now but at the next clutch I'll order one.
Posted by: Mblizzard Nov 2 2014, 02:02 AM
No readjustment needed. Perfect the first time.
I have two prototypes available for further customer evaluation.
Price is $149, delivered.
Chris I would be up for the trail but I am leaving for Afghanistan next week and would not be able to try it out for a while. Somebody else will be the lucky one but put me down for one when I get back. I finally got around to sending your tubes back. Sorry it took so long.
Posted by: bcheney Nov 2 2014, 07:30 AM
if my car was running I would jump on this trial. Gotta get'er fixed then I"ll see where you are. This really looks like a GREAT PRODUCT.
Posted by: Mblizzard Nov 2 2014, 08:18 PM
If nobody else is jumping on this, then I will take one.
Posted by: BritCarJim Nov 3 2014, 09:01 AM
I have no idea what part you are referring to but put me on the list for one
me too
Me three.
Posted by: tornik550 Nov 3 2014, 09:03 AM
I would love to get one of the trial ones however I really do not think anybody wants my input.
Posted by: scotty b Nov 3 2014, 12:04 PM
So in a car with a Renshifter, your firewall aft kit and shift console kit, what will this get me?
Will it improve shifting if I already have the shifter adjusted?
Zach
While it may shift well, it may also still run like shit....just saying
Cars gotta be running first....just saying
Posted by: Racer Chris Nov 3 2014, 01:42 PM
I would love to get one of the trial ones however I really do not think anybody wants my input.
Will you be seeing Dr. Evil any time soon?
If you have time to install the assembly right away and post your thoughts here then your opinion is valuable too.
Posted by: tornik550 Nov 3 2014, 01:55 PM
I would love to get one of the trial ones however I really do not think anybody wants my input.
Will you be seeing Dr. Evil any time soon?
If you have time to install the assembly right away and post your thoughts here then your opinion is valuable too.
I generally try to stay away from Dr. Evil. When he was working at my office, he corrupted my office staff. I had nice Mennonite girls working and now they are cussing, swearing and watching TV.
Just kidding, I do have to get over and see him. I would be happy to install it and give it a try. Where do I send the money and how much?
Posted by: Racer Chris Nov 3 2014, 03:50 PM
I would love to get one of the trial ones however I really do not think anybody wants my input.
Will you be seeing Dr. Evil any time soon?
If you have time to install the assembly right away and post your thoughts here then your opinion is valuable too.
I generally try to stay away from Dr. Evil. When he was working at my office, he corrupted my office staff. I had nice Mennonite girls working and now they are cussing, swearing and watching TV.
Just kidding, I do have to get over and see him. I would be happy to install it and give it a try. Where do I send the money and how much?
I hear Mennonitis is contagious.
Paypal $149 to: sales at tangerineracing dot com
Posted by: Dr Evil Nov 3 2014, 08:58 PM
I would love to get one of the trial ones however I really do not think anybody wants my input.
Will you be seeing Dr. Evil any time soon?
If you have time to install the assembly right away and post your thoughts here then your opinion is valuable too.
I generally try to stay away from Dr. Evil. When he was working at my office, he corrupted my office staff. I had nice Mennonite girls working and now they are cussing, swearing and watching TV.
Just kidding, I do have to get over and see him. I would be happy to install it and give it a try. Where do I send the money and how much?
HA! Not sure if I told you, but the girls were trying to get me to buy them booze. I felt like a wolf in a hen house....in a muzzle
Stop being a stranger, Steve. Posted by: tornik550 Nov 6 2014, 11:27 AM
Look what showed up on my doorstep today
Attached image(s)
Posted by: Racer Chris Nov 6 2014, 03:49 PM
Steve, I haven't had time to start writing directions but it's pretty straightforward.
The basics are covered in post #62 above.
The ring gear fits pretty tightly but it will slide on the spline shaft with a bit of effort.
That ensures that it works as a repeatable stop for the fore-aft adjustment.
Posted by: tornik550 Nov 16 2014, 07:48 PM
i decided that tonight would be the night that I would install Chris' new product. Like many of you, I have fought with adjusting my shifter for many years. I love working on my car. I have rebuilt most of my car at least once and iadjusting the shifter is by far one of my least favorite things to do.
Here is a summary of my experience with Chris' new product.
I do not have a center console so removing the shifter was done in a minute or 2. After removing the old shifter, I grabbed the shift rod with vise grips and slipped the nylon gear over the rod (tight fit however that is the point). After installing the new shift fork on the shifter, I installed the whole unit back onto the shift rod. Bolt the shifter housing to the floor and I was ready to try it out.
The adjustments were very precise and extremely easy. My initial emotion was anger. I thought back to all those times I spent pulling out my hair trying to adjust my shifter- no more of that now. The most difficulty that I had was finding my Allen wrench set. It's snowing here so I wasn't able to drive the car.
Total time spent installing- 12 minutes!!!
This thing is awesome. I am absolutely amazed. I see no problems whatsoever with this new shift fork. Everybody needs one of these!!!!!! The installation is extremely easy. I was able to adjust my shifter accurately in minutes.
I do not know Chris personally however I hope he makes a lot of money on this product. It is brilliant!!!!
Posted by: Java2570 Nov 17 2014, 07:59 AM
Excellent, thanks for the review! I know what my next winter project is going to be....
Chris - any idea when these will be for sale?
Posted by: Dr Evil Nov 17 2014, 08:13 AM
Sounds like I may need to try one of these. The concept was sound, and now we have a trial
Too bad it snowed or I would have you bring it down or I would come up to try it
Posted by: Racer Chris Nov 17 2014, 09:08 AM
Chris - any idea when these will be for sale?
I'm working on custom tooling now so we can start cutting production parts in a couple of weeks.
I'll start taking orders once we have everything in place, and may be ready to begin shipping before Christmas.
Posted by: jim_hoyland Jun 30 2015, 08:39 AM
Just sent in an order. Any new "tips" on doing the install ?
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