As have so many others, I'm going to chime in and say I'm interested. I have driven race cars, and I know I can't have straight cut gears but I wouldn't mind trying to get even closer to the positive feel that I know can exist; I'd also appreciate the couple-centimeter drop it looks like you're doing, which will put my (OEM) knob right in my hand.

Along the way, let me agree with the rest of the world that, as far as I can tell, the S2000 shifter beats every other stock shifter that I've ever met.

One point no one has made (maybe because it's obvious?)-- my preference, and I doubt I'm alone, would be for the shaft to have the OEM thread, so I can use the OEM knob (or my OEM titanium). Some of us really like the way the stock knob feels, and I imagine many would consider the stealth look a good thing. I for one would not purchase the shifter, regardless how it felt, if the thread were compatible only with your own knob (and if it happened to look like the RX8 knob you showed -- not criticizing, but ain't my style).

When you finish it, I will seriously consider purchasing.

 

more solid feel... ummm... have you DRIVEN an S2000?

 

To be honest, your question is quite redundant... If your looking for qualifications, I've been to Racing school (have you?), I grew up going to all the different tracks around the US as my father was a racer (was yours?) and cars and the tuning of racecars has been my passion since I was old enough to talk... so if your going to try and rub some smug number of track days you have under your belt, get off it. Now, with all petty bickering aside...

Richard, I am excited to see you went through with this! My only concerns/input would be utilizing the stock thread pattern so the buyer isn't relegated to the use of only your shift knob... also I am curious about the vibrations coming through from the tranny, but since you said your working on that, I'll leave that be. Always nice to see someone trying to produce a quality product

 

Now would I do that to you? Not put the standard thread on it that is. I don't make shift knobs for sale, only for jokes.

As to vibrations: we just put the latest unit in a car this morning. The owner and mechanic came by a little while ago and stated thumbs up. I wasn't there to ask questions. I'm going over to their shop in a little while. I have a feeling that this one willdo it. We just have not found a rubber boot that works for us and we can afford to use.

Whatever one we use requires us to make the retainer plate to that specific shape. Therefore we can't finalize to kit yet. But it is closer then ever before. Keep the suggestions coming I'm still listning. Like how about the idea of the bend someone suggested? You could do it yourself but if everyone wants it we do them that way.

BTW everything that was OEM will be usable with these kits. The knob, reverse lockout and boot to name a few.

 

Just got back from driving the S2k with nmy latest prototype in it. It's great, I'm happy with this one. It shifts like a dream. Very solid and quick. No vibrations beyond normal. No noise at all.

Just need to gear up to produce the polimer parts then I'll get a couple out to forum members for their opinions. Sorry I already know who is going to get them so don't waste time PMing me. I'd love to give all of you trial units but just can't. Maybe some of the guys could share. There are only so many ready. Then I must try to make a profit with them.

I have a feeling that it will work out though.

I'll let you know when production units are ready. Something will need to be done as to my vender status, I'm sure.

 

Ball park price range estimate? Are we talking general B&M type pricing or....?

ron

 

I don't know what B&M pricing means. I don't think they get into markets this small. Matters not though, I don't think I can give out prices, even projected ones while not signed as a forum vender. Thou shall not break the rules.

I'll gamble suggesting you look at how I price my other products. I'm riding the line there so I'll leave now.

 

B&M is an aftermarket company, which also makes short shifters.

 

I said I didn't know their pricing. I know who B&M is, my shop was right accross the street from them for years. That's when I was Latham Supercharger Co. On top of that I know the owners Don and Bob Spar since the '60's. You probably wern't born then but they made some of the first race automatics available, the Stickhydro or Hydrostick(can't remember everything). Trivia for you.

 

Richard just said I OWN JOO!

After looking at the pricing for the RX8 unit, I think it's a good deal... The pricing is inline with B&M's higher end makes... though I find this comparison kind of redundant as B&M won't make one for our car...