[Got5onit]

I finally installed the B&M shifter. I love the notchiness, it's exactly what I was wanting.
I only have one issue. Reverse is hard as hell to get into now. I have to push hard to the right and at a slight angle before pushing up into gear. Anyone else have this issue with reverse after the shifter install?
Maybe I was just spoiled by the mushy stock stick.


***UPDATE****

Problem solved! I couldn't get the damn knob off but was able to lift the shift boot over the knob enough to remove everything else.

I installed the bolt through the top instead of the bottom. From the top the bolt does not screw all the way in, leaving just enough space for the shifter base to lift up. I re-installed the bolts from the bottom and was able to firmly plant the base to the stock plate. Put everything back togethor and Reverse is a breeze!

I just hope I didn't do any damage to the tranny driving it around when I had the original problem.:hide:

 

[LV_V]

Did you lube up the bushings liberally with grease? If not, you may want to go back and do this. I have a little trouble, well wouldn't really call it trouble, getting into reverse. Its no worse than it was with the stock shifter, which is shit btw. I was very surprised by how good the B&M feels as well; especially for the price I paid, like $210 shipped or something.

 

[Slywun]

This is the first I've read of this happening, I wonder if any of the other shifter brands have this problem.

 

[Got5onit]

The other gears feel ok, it's just reverse. It ws MUCH easier to get into with the stocker. I had to move it several times right after I installed it in order to find Reverse.
Well, I just tried to remove the shift knob and can't get it off. I pressed down too hard on it when I installed it. I guess I'll just live with the tough shift.

 

[calicadi]

The leverage is less because the throw is shorter. I noticed slightly more effort in all gears compared to stock but got used to it quickly. Reverse actually became easier for me, maybe because the gate feels more positive. I did not lube mine. It wasn't specified in the instructions. Next time I'm under there I'll probably shoot some silicone on it just to prevent rust.

 

[Got5onit]

Fixed the problem. Details in first post.:cool2:

 

[rand49er]

Did you lube up the bushings liberally with grease? If not, you may want to go back and do this.

Say, I didn't do this, and I probably should ... is it reasonably easy to do from underneath, or do I have to open her up and go through the boot?

 

[Got5onit]

Say, I didn't do this, and I probably should ... is it reasonably easy to do from underneath, or do I have to open her up and go through the boot?

There is "reasonable" room to work with under there. You could lube from underneath. Just remove the linkage arm. I'd do the top as well, just for peace of mind.

What type grease would one use?

 

[LV_V]

I just used some random grease that my pops had layin around. Have no idea what it was called, but that shit is greazzy. The type of stuff you would probably pick up at Auto Zone.

 

[Got5onit]

I just used some random grease that my pops had layin around. Have no idea what it was called, but that shit is greazzy. The type of stuff you would probably pick up at Auto Zone.

One more question, does B&M recommend lubing the stick? I don't remember seeing that in the manual?

 

[LV_V]

I don't think the manual recommends it, but I don't see any reason not to lube bushings that you want to stay smooth operating for a long time?

 

[Wienk]

I don't have the B&M kit. I installed the UUC and I am happy with it.

But, regarding the reverse "problem", I posted (a long time ago) my hints on installing a shift kit, and I pointed out that, if you trim away some of the foam material that GM put in there to insulate and deaden sound, your shifts into reverse will be much easier! Just trim away some material with a razor where you see the shifter has been rubbing. Does no harm costs nothing, and solves problem!

 

[VELOSE]

I have the B&M too. Sometimes when first or reverse gets tempermental on not going in, I just throw it in another gear and go back to pop it in. Works everytime in case the issue persists.

 

[thefly]

have you noticed any increase in cabin noise since installing? i had one on my vette and will put one on my v when i get one. i am leaning towards the b&m but always hate the noise that comes along with it, like it has on the 3 cars i have put them in so far.

 

[VELOSE]

You will get that slight cabin noise with the B&M. From what I've heard the UUC shifter is best for you if you want no tranny chatter noise in the cabin. With the B&M you need a little music to hide it. After awhile you get used to it.