Taco Bill's MGW Shifter Installation [Archive]

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SuperSonic05

11-22-2008, 05:23 PM

Received the shifter kit from MGW. Well packaged and all parts protected for safe shipping. Each component of the kit is well labeled for easy identification.

Package contents:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_2984.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_2986.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_2987.jpg

Install Procedure

1. Shift knob removal & leather boot.
Pull down on the leather boot where it meets the shifter knob. Itâ€™s on fairly tight, but once you get it to peel away, the rest comes off easily.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3003.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3003B.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3005.jpg

Once the knob is off, the leather boot simply unsnaps away from the center console with minimal effort.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3006.jpg

2. Remove center console.
Open the center armrest to access the (2) Phillip screws.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3009B.jpg

Carefully lift up on the rear section of the console to release the push-in clips near the shifter opening.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3011B.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3011A.jpg

Once free, angle the console around the e-brake handle (must be in the UP position). Use caution to avoid scratching any of the cosmetic plastic trim pieces near the center dash.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3013.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3014.jpg

3. Remove dust boot.
Simply peel away at the edges of the rubber dust boot until itâ€™s free from the shifter assembly.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3015.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3018.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3020.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3021.jpg

4. Jack up car.
Use your preferred method to achieve this. If using a hydraulic floor jack, ALWAYS, ALWAYS use jack stands for your safety.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3024.jpg

SuperSonic05

11-22-2008, 05:24 PM

5. Remove 13mm (This and all subsequent mm sizes will be the socket/wrench size) lock nut from trans link arm to shifter linkage. Save nut.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3029C.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3029A.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3029B.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3029D.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3029E.jpg

6. Remove (2) 10mm nuts from rear threaded studs (use deep socket).
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3032.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3033.jpg

7. Pull down on shifter to clear threaded studs (2 metal clips may fall).
In my case, only 1 metal retaining clip was installed on the Drivers side from the factory.
Pulling the shifter down can be a little stubborn because of this clip, so be firm at freeing it away from the studs.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3033.jpg

8. Remove 10mm bolt from forward part of trans link arm to trans. Save bolt.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3036.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3039.jpg

One small issue I encountered with the type of ratcheting wrench I used was that the head of the wrench hit the tunnel as I was unscrewing it. Being non-reversible (unless you flip it), I had no choice but to muscle it out. It wasnâ€™t a big deal, but just making note of it.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3041.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3042.jpg

9. Remove shifter from inside of car.
Note: MGWâ€™s instructions has you remove the rear bracket of the shifter to facilitate to removal of the shifter from inside the car. I left it on and was still able to free it from the car using a little finesse.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3045.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3046.jpg

Side by side comparison.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3050.jpg

SuperSonic05

11-22-2008, 05:25 PM

10. SKIP

11. SKIP

MGW includes new blue bushings in the shifter block.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_6263.jpg

13A. Cut a rectangular piece off the Dynomat sheet to sufficiently cover both holes. Position this piece just forward of the shifter opening.

(Location of the 2 holes to be Dynomatted)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_6547.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_6551.jpg

14. Set throw setting on MGW linkage block (0-10 turns max out)
MGWÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s instructions will have you adjust the throw adjustment from under the car, but I found it easier to adjust it on the table. ThereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s moderate resistance screwing in/out the block, so thereÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s little chance of movement when positioning the shifter in place.
Just incase, I temporarily taped it down to prevent movement.

Turn calculation
When the linkage block is screwed all the way in (bottomed out), throw reduction (from stock) is approximately 15%. When screwed out 10 turns (max allowable), reduction is 50%.
At 5 turns out, reduction will be 33%.

Formula
((35% / 12) * X) + 15% = Y

X= number of turns out
Y= % of throw reduction of X

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/th_MVI_2997.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/?action=view&current=MVI_2997.flv)

14A. Install MGW supplied upper dust boot around shifter center shaft and square base prior to dropping it down into the tunnel.
This step is a deviation from the MGW instructions which has you install the upper dust boot after the shifter is locked down in the car.
Reason: To make installation of the boot easier from better access outside the car.
NOTE: If you're installing the shift stop kit, do not install dust boot in this step; you'll install it in step 24.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3086.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3087.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3089.jpg

15. Insert MGW shifter down from top, triangular rear section FIRST!

NOTE: Disregard Dynomat shown.
NOTE: No Dynomat required on the INSIDE of the car. Replaced by a thin rubber insulation pad that rests on top of the trans tunnel, then the thicker foam insulator pad on top of it.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3090.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3091.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3092.jpg

16. Re-attach (2) 10mm nuts to shifter and rear studs (from step 6) Ã¢â‚¬â€œ SNUG ONLY!
Do not forget to use the supplied large flat and lock washers under the nuts.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3094A.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3094B.jpg

17. Dynomat bottom of shifter opening; cut and trim to fit.

Cut pieces in such a manner where it makes a 90deg fold ('L' shape flashing method) to the shifter assembly base to the body, completely sealing off any heat/noise from entering the cabin.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3115.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_6573.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_6577.jpg

18. Connect the forward part of trans link arm support to trans using the 10mm bolt (removed from step 8) Ã¢â‚¬â€œ USE SUPPLIED LOCKWASHER UNDER HEAD OF BOLT.
Trans link arm support goes on PASSENGER SIDE.
As stipulated in the MGW instructions, start this bolt by hand for at least 6-8 threads to ensure no cross-threading (blue Loctite optional). Tighten all the way.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3098.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3097.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3099.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3102.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3112.jpg

SuperSonic05

11-22-2008, 05:27 PM

19. Using the supplied clamp, connect the link arm (rod) to shifter main body support.
Main body support has 1/2 round groove, may have to slightly rotate either assembly to align the rod into the groove (MUST ALIGN PERFECTLY).
Once aligned, use socket/wrench to evenly tighten down both 13mm bolts in clamp. (Blue Loctite optional)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3104.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3105.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3106.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_6576.jpg

20. Tighten the (2) 10mm nuts on the rear studs (from step 16).
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3094B.jpg
21. Remove temporary tape (on linkage block) and insert link arm stud through linkage block and reinstall the 13mm nut (from step 5).

NOTE: Ensure large BLACK ARROW is pointing to the DRIVERS SIDE when attaching the trans link arm to the linkage block. If throw is being adjusted from underneath the car, it can be used as a reference on how many turns the linkage block is screwed out.

IMPORTANT note from MGW: The lock nut on the linkage should be locked down firmly. It is designed to actually seat against the rod just prior to locking down on the urethane bushings. You should get on them as if you were tightening down a bolt normally. Do not leave it loose.
In addition, DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN IT! The stud on the link arm may strip or break off if overtightened.

The nut also is a lock nut which is why Ford did not need a lock washer. Look at the end of the nut carefully and you will see 3 little prongs sticking inward into the threads. The blue loctite is definitlty a good added safety measure.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_6007.jpg

Wipe off any grease off the link arm stud threads after pushing it through the blue bushings.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_6008.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_6010.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_6011.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_6012.jpg

22. SKIP

23. Install shift stops at this point if desired (not recommended by MGW). See included directions on installation.
No picture.

24. SKIP

25. Laydown the sound and water barrier plate (black thin rubber piece).
Orient the plate so the 2 round holes are positioned over the studs in the rear.
Stretch the plate around the base cap of the shifter so that it goes under and lays flat on the topside of the transmission tunnel.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_6581.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_6585.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_6586.jpg

SuperSonic05

11-22-2008, 05:28 PM

25A. Install the rubber dust boot at this point in the installation if haven't already done so.
Must go all the around the square base. Blowdryer/heatgun may facilitate installation, but be cautious of overheating the rubber, goal is to just make it more pliable.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_6588.jpg

25B. Install Dynomat sound plate barrier around shifter and boot.
Note the (2) slit cutouts for the studs in the rear, also used to correctly index the sound plate.
Work edges under the boot and square shifter base. Objective is to have the sound plate as flat as possible.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3128.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3129.jpg

Carefully tuck the sound barrier under the shifter base. Caution! DonÃ¢â‚¬â„¢t use anything sharp or risk cutting into the rubber dust boot!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3130.jpg

26. Re-install center console removed from step 2.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3134.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3135.jpg

27. Install shift handle bracket to shifter center stud using the supplied (2) cap screws and long 3/16 Allen wrench.
Position the handle bracket so the MGW LOGO is facing the DRIVERS SIDE.
Bolt heads used on the handle bracket must be on the PASSENGER SIDE.
Rotate the handle bracket so the back handle stud hole is centered in the console shifter opening, then temporarily snug up.
IMPORTANT! Engage 1st and 2nd gear slowly and check for clearance between the handle bracket and the side of the console. If too close, loosen and rotate the handle bracket accordingly.
After final positioning, tighten the (2) cap screws down.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3137.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3138.jpg

28. Install the shift knob shaft into the handle bracket.
Height of shift knob can be adjusted at this time. Make sure itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s within the range of the slit.
Rotaional positioning (clocking) of the knob can also be adjusted (after knob is installed and tightened down).
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3139.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3140.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3142.jpg

29. Reinstall leather shift boot by snapping it in.
Depending on which handle configuration you opted for, if itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s like mine, you may need a small putty knife to work the leather shift boot shifter hole opening around the rubber grommet of the shift knob shaft.
Note: That lock nut you see on the threaded shaft is part of my Hurst ball kit, not MGWÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3144.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3145.jpg

30. Reinstall shift knob.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3146.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3147.jpg

31. Check for gear engagement for all gears including reverse prior to first test drive.

Installation complete! http://forums.bradbarnett.net/images/smilies/banana.gif

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3171.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3175.jpg

Note: If shifter throw re-adjustment is necessary, only remove the 13mm lock nut from trans link arm to shifter linkage block. Adjust the throw as outlined in step 14, then re-install lock nut.

Optional MGW Gripper shift knob shown
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/IMG_3424.jpg

SuperSonic05

11-22-2008, 05:28 PM

Videos (throw is set to 6 turns out):

running thru the gears - engine off
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/th_MVI_3161.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/?action=view&current=MVI_3161.flv)

some spirited shifting
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/th_MVI_3160.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/?action=view&current=MVI_3160.flv)

normal shifting
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/th_MVI_3158-1.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/?action=view&current=MVI_3158-1.flv)

normal shifting - top view
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/th_MVI_3159_MPEG.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v673/tacobill35/MGW%20shifter%20install/?action=view&current=MVI_3159_MPEG.flv)

Ambenz

11-29-2008, 11:58 AM

GtoLord

12-01-2008, 11:02 AM

Step 29 Forget Steps 1-28 and just have a shop do it.

SuperSonic05

12-01-2008, 11:37 AM

I was looking into getting one and I read your picture show direction on how to do it yourself.
I was kinda shocked on the step there you have to use dynomat to cover some of the stock holes and area around the shift hole underneath the car.
Step #13a and #17 makes me wonder about doing this mod.
Did you have to cover the underside this way or maybe a special plate would work better and look more like a pro installation.
I am worried the dynomat will fail in a couple of years and water will infiltrate between the metal .
Am I being just goofy, I want my pony to last longer than me..........Any feedback will be appreciated.

I’ve always thought of this as a thing to help not let sound into the cabin, not to keep water out. All the other shifter manufacturers don’t even give you the dynomat, let alone a plane, to cover up the wholes. MGW hands down, makes the best shifter for the s197 and will even send you update when they correct issue with the shifter that have been found through use.

Step 29 Forget Steps 1-28 and just have a shop do it.

you wussy, do your own work

mot250

12-01-2008, 09:10 PM

I skipped all of the dyno mat in my installation. I modified the stock lower shifter boot instead as in these instructions.

http://www.windycitystangs.com/forums/showthread.php?t=37

I think my method made for a more pro-looking install. But I also think no other manufacturer besides MGW even addresses the gaps left when installing an aftermarket shifter, so for that MGW deserves some props...