Shifters: Stock vs B&M vs Hurst

[RadRacer]

What's the difference in the aftermarket shifters compared to stock? I know some just cut the stock shifter down some to get quicker shifts, but most I've talked to eventually go and buy an aftermarket one after they've cut the stock one down. I've been thinking of cutting down my stock one to shave abit off my 1/4 time, but wasn't sure if I should do this, or just go ahead and buy an aftermarket one. So, what's the differences in the 3.

[IDoVoodoo]

Re: Shifters: Stock vs B&M vs Hurst

I've got the hurst billet/plus with lou's short stick. Definately crisper shifts and a shorter throw (not as much as I hoped though). Best thing about the hurst over stock is the springs that center it. Just push up from second and it automatically centers and goes to 3rd.

[98 3.8]

Re: Shifters: Stock vs B&M vs Hurst

The Pro 5.0 also has the spring loaded 2-3 shift mechanism. Additionally, it has adjustable stops so you can fine tune the shifter. I have the Pro 5.0 with a 1.5" shortened stick (VERY short!) and I have never seen a car that can bang from gear to gear faster than mine.

[RadRacer]

Re: Shifters: Stock vs B&M vs Hurst

So, basically the only perk is it centers itself. I think I can deal without that to save some $$$. Next question, cutting my stock one. Do I just take a hack saw or cut-off wheel to it? How short would you recommend I cut it. My shift knob doesn't screw on to the threads, so I don't need them. Anything else that might stop me from cutting it down any further?

[CHEVYINSIDE]

Re: Shifters: Stock vs B&M vs Hurst

the stock shifter has a rubber isolator in it to eliminate vibration . the husrt or other aftermarket ones do not . it gives u a more firm shift feel

[98 3.8]

Re: Shifters: Stock vs B&M vs Hurst

The stock shifter has much more "slack" in the mechanism than a short shifter. There is far more to an aftermarket shifter than a short throw distance. They are built much better, to much better tolerances. Basically...

Sawed off stocker =/= Pro 5.0 or Hurst

[RadRacer]

Re: Shifters: Stock vs B&M vs Hurst

OK. The whole reason why I wanted one was for the shorter throw though. So, any recommendations/concerns for cutting my stocker?

[SilverRS96]

Re: Shifters: Stock vs B&M vs Hurst

ditch the stocker...sloppy shifts and a unsure feeling on if its in gear or not...i went to www.ws6store.com and bought the proform shifter...its the same as the b&m ripper because b&m lost the patten to the shifter....about 40 bucks less...only draw back is that u cant bolt up a short stick to it...ive had the hurst and the b&m but by far my fav is the proform/B&M..

[ssms5411]

Re: Shifters: Stock vs B&M vs Hurst

Another vote here for the ripper.

[CHEVYINSIDE]

Re: Shifters: Stock vs B&M vs Hurst

b& m owns hurst now so it will be intersting to see wich one they contue to use when they merge

[Greg94Red392]

Re: Shifters: Stock vs B&M vs Hurst

Cutting your stock stick isnt going to make your throws shorter. It might give you a more precise feel for the gears but it wont make your throws any shorter.

[HokieBird]

Re: Shifters: Stock vs B&M vs Hurst

Search. There are a ton of thread that all repeat the same thing over and over about this.

cliff notes:
-all reduce throw length
-all make for firmer shifts
-all will make more noise
-hurst and 5.0 can have a shorter handle bolted on
-hurst and 5.0 have adjustable stops

All will feel a million times better then stock and you will wonder why you didn't do it earlier. Which one to choose is a toss up besides the shorter handle thing so just pick one and I'm sure you will be happy with it.

[RadRacer]

Re: Shifters: Stock vs B&M vs Hurst

Cutting your stock stick isn't going to make your throws shorter. It might give you a more precise feel for the gears but it wont make your throws any shorter.

Yes it will.


It may not be that much of a difference, but it will make a difference.

[RadRacer]

Re: Shifters: Stock vs B&M vs Hurst

Well, kinda took a look at my current shifter. I only have about 1/2" of thread, it doesn't look cut, and it kinda centers itself. If you stick it over to the right (5th and Reverse), it flings right back to the center when you let go; if you stick it to the left (1st and 2nd) it moves towards the center, but not as much as it does from the right side. But, if you let it center itself and go straight forward with it, it goes right into 3rd gear. Plus, I was looking online, and other stock shifters have a wave in them, where as mine is straight, but I think they may have been T56 sticks.

[SilverRS96]

Re: Shifters: Stock vs B&M vs Hurst

stock shifter sucks bottom line....spend the money to get a short shifter and u wont b dissapointed...positive shifts shorter throw plus its a sure feeling when u get it into gear